Kettikaran(1971)
Kettikaran is a 1971 Indian Tamil-language action spy film directed by H. S. Venu. The film stars Jaishankar in a dual role as Nataraj and Sangu, alongside Leela, Nagesh, and Major Sundarrajan. The story follows a CID officer chasing a clever thief, but takes a turn when the thief's identical twin brother steps in to uncover the truth behind his death. The film blends heist sequences, rooftop chases, and emotional family drama. It was noted for its fast-paced narrative and Jaishankar's double performance. Kettikaran was released in theatres across Tamil Nadu in 1971.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- YouTube
- Theatrical Release
- 31 December 1971
- Director
- Venu
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 2m 0
Storyline
A CID officer chases a master thief through the streets of Madras. The thief dies during the chase. But his identical twin brother takes his place. He wants to find out who really killed his brother. He must complete a dangerous heist and avoid the police to get the truth.
“One brother died. The other took his place”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Kettikaran
Cast reunions in this film: Nagesh & Jaishankar (53 films together), Sankar Ganesh & Jaishankar (38 films together), Sankar Ganesh & Nagesh (27 films together), Nagesh & Dhandayuthapani Films (2 films together), and Jaishankar & Dhandayuthapani Films (2 films together).
Trivia
- The film's director Venu was also a popular actor, known for playing villain roles in many Tamil films of the 1960s.
- This movie was one of the early Tamil films to feature a plot centered on drug trafficking as a major crime.
- The title 'Kettikaran' translates to 'The Victorious Man', contrasting with the hero's challenging pursuit of the villain.
- Actor Muthuraman, who played the CID officer, was a leading star often cast in heroic and police roles during this era.
- The film's music was composed by Shankar–Ganesh, a duo who later became famous for their work with superstar Rajinikanth.
- It was released during a period when Tamil cinema frequently featured crime thrillers with clear moral divisions between hero and villain.
- The chase sequence leading to the thief's death was a common dramatic device in action films of the early 1970s.