Annakili(1976)
Annakili is a 1976 Indian Tamil-language romantic drama film directed by Devaraj–Mohan. It stars Sujatha as Annakili and Sivakumar as Thyagarajan, with S. V. Subbaiah, Srikanth, Thengai Srinivasan, and Fatafat Jayalaxmi in supporting roles. The story follows a village girl who falls in love with a poor teacher, but he marries her wealthy friend for financial security. When a local womaniser seeks revenge after being rejected, Annakili must make a devastating sacrifice. The film is shot in black-and-white and features Ilaiyaraaja's debut music score, which became a landmark in Tamil cinema. It won the Filmfare Award for Best Tamil Film and was screened at the International Film Festival of India in 1978. Annakili was released on 14 May 1976 and achieved cult status for its emotional depth and rural authenticity.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Airtel Xstream Play
- Theatrical Release
- 31 December 1976
- Director
- Devaraj
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 20m
- Rating
- 7.5/10
Storyline
Annakili is a young village woman who falls in love with Thyagarajan, a poor teacher. But Thyagarajan marries her wealthy friend Sumathi to support his family. When a cruel womaniser named Azhagappan tries to force Annakili into marriage, she refuses. He kidnaps Thyagarajan's baby son and sets a cinema theatre on fire. Annakili must risk everything to save the child.
“A love that burns brighter than fire.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Annakili
Cast reunions in this film: Sivakumar & Thengai Srinivasan (15 films together), Venniradai Moorthy & Goundamani (14 films together), Sujatha & Thengai Srinivasan (12 films together), Venniradai Moorthy & Thengai Srinivasan (10 films together), Srikanth & Thengai Srinivasan (10 films together), and Sivakumar & Devaraj Mohan (10 films together).
Trivia
- The film's title 'Annakili' refers to a type of bird, symbolising the main character's longing for freedom.
- This was one of the earliest films for actor-director Devaraj, who was better known as a supporting actor.
- The movie was shot extensively in rural Tamil Nadu to capture authentic village life.
- It featured a hit song 'Kadavul Ullame' by composer Shankar–Ganesh, which became popular on radio.
- The story highlighted the social pressure on a bachelor supporting his family, a common theme in 1970s Tamil cinema.
- Actress Lakshmi, who played the female lead, was already a major star, bringing attention to this smaller film.