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Ilamai Kolam(1980)

Tamil134 minstheatrical

Ilamai Kolam is a 1980 Indian Tamil-language romantic drama directed by N. Venkatesh. The film stars Suman, Radhika, and Pratap Pothen in lead roles. The story follows a middle-class office worker who falls for a charming playboy, only to discover she was part of a cruel bet. Instead of accepting defeat, she chooses to fight back. The film was noted for its progressive portrayal of a woman taking revenge, which was uncommon in Tamil cinema at the time. It features a soundtrack by Shankar–Ganesh. The film was released in 1980 and received positive reviews for its performances and bold narrative.

Director:N. Venkatesh
Mood:
emotionalupliftinginspiring
Where to watch:

Quick Facts

Streaming on
Airtel Xstream Play, Raj Digital TV, Tentkotta
Theatrical Release
31 December 1980
Director
N. Venkatesh
Language
Tamil
Runtime
2h 14m
0

Storyline

A sweet middle-class girl named Radhika falls in love with a charming playboy named Suman. But his love is a lie — part of a bet with his roommate. When she learns the truth, she refuses to be a victim. She decides to take revenge and turn his own game against him.

Love is a game. She plays to win.

Film Details

134Minutes
TamilLanguage
UCertificate
Release Date31 December 1980
Release Typetheatrical

Parental Guide

Violence
Mild
Language
Low
Sex / Nudity
Mild
Drugs
Mild
Intensity
Mild

Where to Watch

Vibe & Tags

Mood
emotionalupliftinginspiring
Themes
loveidentityfamilyfriendship
Toneserious
Pacingslow-burn
Complexitymoderate
Audiencemultiplex
Best Withwith-partner
Violence1
Emotion4
Humor2
Rewatchability3

Cast & Crew

Reunion Meter

Frequent partnerships reunited for Ilamai Kolam

Cast reunions in this film: Raadhika Sarathkumar & Ilayaraja (44 films together), Prathap K. Pothan & Ilayaraja (12 films together), Suman & Ilayaraja (5 films together), Raadhika Sarathkumar & Prathap K. Pothan (2 films together), and Ilayaraja & N. Venkatesh (2 films together).

Trivia

  • The film's title 'Ilamai Kolam' refers to the traditional art of drawing kolams, symbolizing the transient nature of youth and beauty.
  • It was one of the early major films for actress Sujatha, who became a prominent figure in Tamil cinema.
  • The movie features a notable soundtrack by composer Shankar-Ganesh, with lyrics by veteran Kannadasan.
  • Director N. Venkatesh was known for social dramas, and this film continued his focus on contemporary youth issues.
  • The story contrasts city life with village values, a common theme in Tamil cinema of that era.
  • Actor Sivakumar played a key role, bringing his signature intensity to the generational conflict storyline.
  • Despite its thematic depth, the film did not achieve major commercial success upon its initial release.

Frequently Asked Questions