Azhiyadha Kolangal(1979)
Azhiyadha Kolangal is a 1979 Indian Tamil-language coming-of-age drama film directed by Balu Mahendra. The film stars Shoba and Pratap Pothen, with Kamal Haasan in a guest role. The story follows three schoolboys in a small village as they navigate adolescence, first love, and loss. It is partly autobiographical and was inspired by the 1971 American film Summer of '42. The film received critical acclaim and was screened at the International Film Festival of India in 1980. It was shot in 27 days at locations near Trichy, including Pettavaithalai and Sirugamani. The music was composed by Salil Chowdhury. The film was released on 7 December 1979.
Quick Facts
- Theatrical Release
- 31 December 1979
- Director
- Balu Mahendra
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 30m
- Rating
- 8.5/10
Storyline
Three schoolboys in a quiet Tamil village stumble through the confusing world of adolescence. They are curious about sex, love, and adult life. Their innocent experiments lead to joy, fights, and a devastating tragedy that changes everything.
“Some memories never fade away”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Azhiyadha Kolangal
Cast reunions in this film: Kamal Haasan & Ilayaraja (60 films together), Venniradai Moorthy & Ilayaraja (42 films together), Balu Mahendra & Ilayaraja (15 films together), Prathap K. Pothan & Ilayaraja (12 films together), Ilayaraja & Shobha (6 films together), and Kamal Haasan & Venniradai Moorthy (5 films together).
Trivia
- The film was based on writer Ashokamitran's short story 'Kann Sivanthaal Mann Sivakkum'.
- It was the first Tamil film to be shot by Balu Mahendra, who was already an acclaimed cinematographer.
- The movie was filmed in and around the village of Kumbakonam, giving it a very authentic rural feel.
- Actress Shoba was only 15 years old during filming, playing a key adolescent role.
- The film's realistic portrayal of teenage life was considered very bold for its time.
- It marked one of the earliest scores by renowned music composer Ilaiyaraaja for a Balu Mahendra film.
- Despite critical praise, the film had a very limited theatrical release and was not a commercial success.