Needhi was directed by C. V. Rajendran and released in 1972. C. V. Rajendran is a prominent filmmaker in Tamil film industry.

Needhi stars Sivaji Ganesan alongside Jayalalitha, J. P. Chandrababu. The film marks a collaboration between Sivaji Ganesan and director C. V. Rajendran within Tamil cinema.

Who composed the music for Needhi?

The music for Needhi was composed by M. S. Viswanathan. M. S. Viswanathan is a well-known name in Tamil film music, and the soundtrack contributes significantly to the film's identity.

Is Needhi suitable for family viewing?

Yes — Needhi holds a U certificate from the CBFC, meaning it is cleared for all ages including children.

Needhi(1972)

Tamil• mins•theatrical•Updated 2 May 2026

Needhi (transl. Justice) is a 1972 Indian Tamil-language drama film directed by C.V. Rajendran and produced by K. Balaji. The film stars Sivaji Ganesan, Jayalalithaa, and Sowcar Janaki in lead roles. The story follows Raja, a reckless truck driver who accidentally kills a farmer and is ordered by a judge to live with the victim's family and support them financially. Set in a rural Tamil village, the narrative explores themes of guilt, redemption, and restorative justice. The film is a remake of the 1971 Hindi film Dushmun. It was released on 7 December 1972 and became a commercial success, with critics praising the performances of the cast and the emotional depth of the story.

Director:C. V. Rajendran

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Quick Facts

Theatrical Release: 6 December 1972
Director: C. V. Rajendran
Language: Tamil

Storyline

A reckless truck driver kills a farmer in a drunken accident. Instead of prison, a judge forces him to live with the victim's family. He must work for them and earn their forgiveness. But a greedy landlord threatens the family's land and his new life.

“Justice is not always prison.”