Poikkal Kudhirai(1983)
Poikkal Kudhirai is a 1983 Indian Tamil-language romantic comedy film directed by K. Balachander. The film stars Ramakrishna as Indhu, Viji as Janaki, and Vaali as Sambandam. It is based on Crazy Mohan's play 'Marriage Made in Saloon' and marks Vaali's acting debut. The story revolves around a bet made in a saloon where a young man must win a girl's heart to avoid shaving his head. The film features a guest appearance by Kamal Haasan and music composed by M. S. Viswanathan. It was released on 2 September 1983 and was remade in Kannada as Mavanige Thakka Aliya in 1992.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Eros Now, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video
- Theatrical Release
- 2 September 1983
- Director
- Santhosh P. Jayakumar
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 28m
- Rating
- 7.5/10
Storyline
A young man named Indhu challenges a compulsive gambler named Sambandam to a bet. Indhu must make Sambandam's daughter Janaki fall in love with him. If he succeeds, Sambandam shaves half his moustache. If he fails, Indhu shaves his head. The battle of wits begins in a saloon and leads to unexpected romance.
“A bet that changes everything.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Poikkal Kudhirai
Cast reunions in this film: Charlie & Charle (102 films together), K. Balachander & M. S. Viswanathan (27 films together), Charlie & Radha Ravi (17 films together), Y. Gee. Mahendra & M. S. Viswanathan (13 films together), K. Balachander & Charlie (11 films together), and Charlie & M. S. Viswanathan (8 films together).
Trivia
- The film was based on a popular play by Crazy Mohan, a famous Tamil comedy writer.
- Lyricist Vaali made his acting debut in this film, playing the character Sambandam.
- Kamal Haasan appeared in a special guest role, though he was not part of the main cast.
- The movie's title 'Poikkal Kudhirai' translates to 'Wooden Horse', referencing a traditional toy.
- It was one of the few films directed by K. Balachander that leaned heavily into pure comedy.
- The bet in the story revolves around a barber shop, which is the central location of the plot.
- Actor Ramakrishna, who played Indu, also made his cinematic debut with this movie.