Pudhu Pudhu Arthangal(1989)
Pudhu Pudhu Arthangal is a 1989 Indian Tamil-language romantic drama film written and directed by K. Balachander. The film stars Rahman (credited as Raghu) and Geetha in lead roles, with Sithara making her Tamil cinema debut as Jyothi. The story follows Manibharathi, a successful playback singer who leaves his possessive wife Gowri after a fight, and meets Jyothi, a woman escaping an abusive husband who forced her into prostitution. The film explores themes of jealousy, second chances, and the search for new meanings in broken relationships. It won a Filmfare Award for Best Director – Tamil and two Tamil Nadu State Film Awards, including Second Best Film. The soundtrack, composed by Ilaiyaraaja, features the popular song 'Keladi Kanmani'. The film was released on 28 October 1989, on Diwali day.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Prime Video, Eros Now, Airtel Xstream Play
- Theatrical Release
- 28 October 1989
- Director
- K. Balachander
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 30m
- Rating
- 3.8/10
Storyline
A famous playback singer walks out on his jealous wife after a bitter fight. On the road, he meets a young woman running from an abusive husband who forced her into prostitution. Together they travel to Goa and start a new life as waiters. But their pasts refuse to let them go.
“Love finds new meanings in broken hearts.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Pudhu Pudhu Arthangal
Cast reunions in this film: Ilayaraja & Charlie (59 films together), Ilayaraja & Janagaraj (59 films together), Ilayaraja & Poornam Viswanathan (17 films together), Vivek & Ilayaraja (16 films together), Charlie & Janagaraj (15 films together), and Rahman & Ilayaraja (12 films together).
Trivia
- This film was a rare collaboration between director K. Balachander and music composer Ilaiyaraaja, who usually worked with director Balu Mahendra.
- The movie's title translates to 'New New Meanings', reflecting its theme of characters seeking fresh starts in life.
- Actress Revathi, who played Jyothi, was already a major star, but this role showcased her in a more mature, dramatic light.
- The story parallels the director's earlier hit 'Arangetram', but focuses on artistic men facing domestic turmoil instead of women.
- A subplot involves a character learning Bharatanatyam, highlighting the film's focus on classical Indian arts.
- It was released during a wave of Balachander films that critically examined modern Tamil family relationships.
- The film is remembered for its nuanced performances rather than major box office success.