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Rajanadai(1989)

Tamil135 minstheatrical

Rajanadai (transl. Royal Walk) is a 1989 Indian Tamil-language action film directed by S. A. Chandrasekhar. The film stars Vijayakanth as CID Inspector Vijayakanth, alongside Gautami, Vidhyashree, and Seetha in pivotal roles. The story follows an honest police officer who gathers evidence against a dangerous criminal named Tiger Kaali. His personal life collides with his professional duty when his wife Seetha is diagnosed with blood cancer and later murdered by the criminal. The film explores themes of family sacrifice, systemic failure, and personal vengeance. It was released on 28 October 1989 during the Diwali festival. The music was composed by M. S. Viswanathan. The film was later remade in Hindi as Jeevan Ki Shatranj (1993) and in Bangladesh as Baba (2003).

Occasion:Diwali 1989
Mood:
darkemotionalsuspenseful
Where to watch:
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Quick Facts

Theatrical Release
28 October 1989
Director
S. A. Chandrasekhar
Language
Tamil
Runtime
2h 15m
0

Storyline

CID Inspector Vijayakanth is a devoted husband and father. He has enough evidence to arrest the ruthless gangster Tiger Kaali. But his wife Seetha hides a deadly secret — she has blood cancer. Before Vijayakanth can save her, Kaali murders Seetha and destroys the evidence. Now Vijayakanth must choose between the law and revenge.

When the law fails, walk like a king

Film Details

135Minutes
TamilLanguage
UCertificate
Release Date28 October 1989
Release Typetheatrical
OccasionDiwali 1989

Parental Guide

Violence
Low
Language
Low
Sex / Nudity
Mild
Drugs
Mild
Intensity
Low

Vibe & Tags

Mood
darkemotionalsuspenseful
Themes
revengejusticecorruptionfamily
Tonegritty
Pacingslow-burn
Complexitymoderate
Audiencemass
Best Withwith-partner
Violence4
Emotion4
Humor2
Rewatchability3

Cast & Crew

Reunion Meter

Frequent partnerships reunited for Rajanadai

Cast reunions in this film: S. A. Chandrasekhar & Vijayakanth (18 films together), Vijayakanth & Radha Ravi (18 films together), Radha Ravi & S. S. Chandran (17 films together), Vijayakanth & S. S. Chandran (15 films together), Vijayakanth & M. S. Viswanathan (10 films together), and Gouthami & S. S. Chandran (10 films together).

Trivia

  • The film's title 'Rajanadai' translates to 'King's Dog', symbolizing loyalty and service.
  • This was one of the few films where composer M.S. Viswanathan worked with director S.A. Chandrasekhar in the late 1980s.
  • Actress Seetha, who played a key role, was primarily known as a child actress before this film.
  • The movie was produced by the director's wife, Shoba Chandrasekhar, a common practice in their collaborations.
  • It released during a period when Vijayakanth was frequently starring in action dramas portraying righteous heroes.
  • The film's soundtrack is less remembered compared to other Vijayakanth hits of the era.

Frequently Asked Questions