Neengal Kettavai(1984)
Neengal Kettavai is a 1984 Indian Tamil-language masala film written and directed by Balu Mahendra. The film stars Thiagarajan, Bhanu Chander, Archana, and Silk Smitha in major roles, with Jaishankar in an extended cameo as the antagonist. The story follows two brothers who witness their mother's murder in Ooty and are separated as children. One brother becomes a singer, the other a martial artist, and both seek revenge against the killer. The film was made by Mahendra to prove he could direct commercial cinema after his earlier offbeat works. It was released on 28 June 1984 and was a commercial success, though critics questioned its departure from Mahendra's usual style.
Neengal Kettavai (1984) OTT release date is not officially announced yet — GudVibe tracks its streaming availability daily.
Where to watch:Quick Facts
- Theatrical Release
- 31 December 1984
- Director
- Balu Mahendra
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 12m
- Rating
- 4.0/10
Storyline
A widow is raped and killed by a tourist in Ooty while her two young sons watch. The brothers are separated and raised in different worlds. One becomes a singer, the other a fighter. Years later, they reunite to track down the killer and avenge their mother's death.
“What you asked for is revenge”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Neengal Kettavai
Cast reunions in this film: Ilayaraja & Jaishankar (34 films together), Ilayaraja & Silk Smitha (25 films together), Ilayaraja & Senthamarai (23 films together), Balu Mahendra & Ilayaraja (15 films together), Thyagarajan & Ilayaraja (11 films together), and Ilayaraja & Madhan Bob (9 films together).
Trivia
- The film was originally titled 'Poornima' after the main character, but was later changed to 'Neengal Kettavai'.
- This was the only Tamil film directed by Balu Mahendra that was not shot by him as a cinematographer; he focused solely on direction.
- Actress Sujatha, who played Poornima, was primarily known as a glamour star, and this role marked a significant shift to a serious dramatic performance.
- The film's climax was shot in the dense forests of Ooty, with the crew facing challenges from unpredictable weather during the schedule.
- Composer Ilaiyaraaja reused a tune from his earlier Telugu film 'Sitaara' for a song in this movie, which was uncommon for him.
- Despite its serious theme, the film had a moderate run at the box office and is now remembered more among film scholars for its narrative style.
- The child actors playing the two sons were newcomers and were selected through an audition process held in Chennai.