Gaayathri(1977)
Gaayathri is a 1977 Indian Tamil-language crime thriller film directed by R. Pattabhiraman. The film stars Jaishankar, Rajinikanth, and Sridevi in lead roles. Based on a novel by Sujatha, the story follows a young bride who discovers her husband's secret life as a blue-film producer. The film was conceived during the Emergency period in India. Its screenplay was written by Panchu Arunachalam. The music was composed by Ilaiyaraaja. Film World praised the movie as off-beat and noted its contribution to Tamil cinema. Gaayathri was released on 7 October 1977.
Quick Facts
- Theatrical Release
- 1 May 1977
- Director
- R. Pattabiram
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 2m 0
Storyline
A sixteen-year-old bride moves into her wealthy husband's house. She soon discovers he secretly films their private moments. He sells the recordings in the black market. She must find a way to escape his control. A brave friend comes to her rescue.
“Her husband had a deadly secret”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Gaayathri
Cast reunions in this film: Rajinikanth & Ilayaraja (58 films together), Venniradai Moorthy & Ilayaraja (42 films together), Ilayaraja & Jaishankar (34 films together), Ilayaraja & Panchu Arunachalam (26 films together), Ilayaraja & Sridevi (23 films together), and Rajinikanth & Sridevi (16 films together).
Trivia
- The film was originally titled 'Gayathri' but was later changed to 'Gaayathri' to avoid confusion with another movie.
- This was one of the few Tamil films of the era where the lead actress, Jayachitra, played a character fighting against blackmail and exploitation.
- Director R. Pattabhiraman was primarily known for his work in Telugu cinema, making this a relatively rare Tamil directorial venture for him.
- The movie's plot involving the sale of intimate footage was considered a bold and controversial subject for mainstream Tamil cinema in the late 1970s.
- Composer Shankar–Ganesh, known for their peppy numbers, provided the music, creating a contrast with the film's serious dramatic core.
- The film's release coincided with a period of shifting social themes in Tamil cinema, moving towards more female-centric narratives.
- Actor Srikanth, who played the male lead, was often cast in romantic roles, making his character in this film a notable departure.