Vedham Pudhithu(1987)
Vedham Pudhithu is a 1987 Indian Tamil-language drama film directed and co-written by Bharathiraja. It stars Sathyaraj, Saritha, and Amala in lead roles. The story follows Balu Thevar, an atheist from a lower caste, whose son falls in love with a Brahmin woman. The romance triggers a series of tragic events that expose the cruelty of the caste system. The film is based on the play Saadhigal Illaiyadi Papa by K. Kannan, who wrote the dialogues. It won the National Film Award for Best Film on Other Social Issues and three Filmfare Awards South. The film was controversial for its depiction of Tamil Brahmins but became a commercial success, running for over 150 days. It was released on 27 December 1987.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Prime Video
- Theatrical Release
- 31 December 1987
- Director
- Bharathiraja
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 30m
- Rating
- 4.0/10
Storyline
An atheist landowner named Balu Thevar raises his son to reject caste rules. But when his son falls in love with a Brahmin priest's daughter, the village turns violent. Balu must choose between his beliefs and his family's safety. A tragedy forces him to adopt the girl's orphaned brother. The boy's presence challenges everything the village believes in.
“Old Vedas divide. New Vedas unite.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Vedham Pudhithu
Cast reunions in this film: Bharathiraja & B. Kannan (17 films together), Amala & Amala Akkineni (17 films together), Sathyaraj & Nizhalgal Ravi (16 films together), Nizhalgal Ravi & Janagaraj (14 films together), Bharathiraja & Janagaraj (11 films together), and Sathyaraj & Janagaraj (9 films together).
Trivia
- The film's title 'Vedham Pudhithu' translates to 'New Veda', symbolising a break from old caste beliefs.
- This was one of the first major Tamil films to directly address caste-based love and inter-caste marriage as its central theme.
- Actress Radha, who played Vaidehi, received critical acclaim for her role but the film faced protests from some conservative groups.
- The movie features music by Ilaiyaraaja, including the popular song 'Putham Pudhu Kaalai' sung by S. Janaki.
- Director Bharathiraja is known for realistic rural films, and this was considered a bold social drama for its time.
- The conflict in the film mirrors real-life caste tensions that were prevalent in Tamil Nadu during the 1980s.
- Actor Sathyaraj played the male lead Sankarapandi, portraying a character from a marginalised community with dignity.