Kootupuzhukkal(1987)
Kootupuzhukkal (1987) is a Tamil-language drama film written and directed by R. C. Sakthi. The film stars Raghuvaran as Surya and Amala as Manga, with supporting performances by Chandrasekhar, Y. Vijaya, and C. I. D. Sakunthala. Based on Anuradha Ramanan's novel of the same name, the story follows the intertwined lives of eight families living in a crowded Madras housing complex. Central to the plot is Surya, an unemployed graduate, and his love for Manga, a young woman forced into prostitution by her mother. The film is noted for its realistic portrayal of poverty, dowry, and societal hypocrisy. It received positive reviews for its honest storytelling and strong performances. The music was composed by M. S. Viswanathan. The film was released on 12 September 1987.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- YouTube
- Theatrical Release
- 31 December 1987
- Director
- R. C. Sakthi
- Language
- Tamil 0
Storyline
Surya, an unemployed graduate, lives in a crowded housing complex and falls in love with his neighbour Manga. But Manga is trapped by her mother, who forces her into prostitution to survive. Surya must fight poverty, family pressure, and society's judgment to win her love and break free from their cocooned lives.
“Love that breaks every cage.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Kootupuzhukkal
Cast reunions in this film: M. S. Viswanathan & R. C. Sakthi (7 films together), Raghuvaran & M. S. Viswanathan (2 films together), Raghuvaran & Amala (2 films together), and M. S. Viswanathan & Amala (2 films together).
Trivia
- The film was based on a popular Tamil stage play of the same name, which also starred Sathyaraj in the lead role.
- Director R. C. Sakthi was a well-known playwright and theatre personality, and this was one of his few directorial ventures in cinema.
- The movie's music was composed by Ilaiyaraaja, but it is considered one of his lesser-known soundtracks from that period.
- Actress Radha, who played Manga, was at the peak of her career in the late 1980s, appearing in many successful films simultaneously.
- The story's focus on an unemployed youth's struggles reflected common social themes in Tamil cinema of the 1980s.
- Despite the lead actor Sathyaraj's rising popularity, the film did not achieve major commercial success at the box office.
- The title 'Kootu Puzhukkal' translates to 'Bunch of Grass', symbolising ordinary or common people in society.