Raja Rishi(1985)
Raja Rishi is a 1985 Indian Tamil-language Hindu mythological film directed by K. Shankar. The film stars Sivaji Ganesan as Vishwamitra, alongside Prabhu, M. N. Nambiar, and Lakshmi. It is based on the play Viswamithran by A. S. Prakasam. The story follows King Vishwamitra's transformation into a Brahmarishi after a conflict with Sage Vasishta over the magical cow Kamadhenu. The film features music composed by Ilaiyaraaja. Critical reception praised Sivaji Ganesan's performance and the music, but noted weak humor. The film was released on 20 September 1985 and failed at the box office.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Eros Now, Prime Video (via Eros Now channel), Airtel Xstream Play, YouTube
- Theatrical Release
- 20 September 1985
- Director
- K. Shankar
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 16m
- Rating
- 6.5/10
Storyline
King Vishwamitra challenges Sage Vasishta for his magical cow. Humiliated, he vows to become a Brahmarishi. He faces obstacles from the jealous god Devendran. He falls in love, abandons his family, and must learn humility to achieve his goal.
“A king's pride. A sage's destiny.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Raja Rishi
Cast reunions in this film: Prabhu & Ilayaraja (60 films together), Raadhika Sarathkumar & Ilayaraja (44 films together), Ilayaraja & Vijayakumar (44 films together), Venniradai Moorthy & Ilayaraja (42 films together), Ilayaraja & V. K. Ramasamy (42 films together), and Sivaji Ganesan & Major Sundarrajan (38 films together).
Trivia
- The film was produced by N. Sakunthala, who was a prominent female producer in the Tamil film industry during that era.
- It features a rare on-screen pairing of real-life father and son Sivaji Ganesan and Prabhu Ganesan in significant roles.
- The story is based on the mythological tale of King Kaushika's transformation into the sage Vishvamitra.
- A notable highlight is Sivaji Ganesan's rendition of the Gayatri Mantra, which was appreciated for its devotional depth.
- The film's director, K. Shankar, was known for directing many mythological and social dramas in Tamil and Telugu cinema.
- Despite its star cast, the film did not achieve major commercial success upon its initial release.
- The movie includes veteran actor M.N. Nambiar in a key role, continuing his long collaboration with Sivaji Ganesan.