Thamarai Nenjam(1968)
Thamarai Nenjam is a 1968 Indian Tamil-language romantic drama film written and directed by K. Balachander. The film stars Gemini Ganesan, B. Saroja Devi, and Vanisri in lead roles. The story follows two close friends, Kamala and Radha, who both fall in love with the same man, Murali. Kamala hides her love and helps Murali marry Radha. When Radha discovers the truth, guilt drives all three into emotional turmoil. The film is known for its honest portrayal of sacrifice and unspoken love. It won the Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Film (Third Prize) and Best Dialogue Writer for Balachander. Thamarai Nenjam was released on 31 May 1968.
Thamarai Nenjam (1968) OTT release date is not officially announced yet — GudVibe tracks its streaming availability daily.
Where to watch:Quick Facts
- Theatrical Release
- 31 May 1968
- Director
- K. Balachander
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 44m 0
Storyline
Kamala loves Murali but helps him marry her best friend Radha. When Radha learns the truth, guilt makes her push Murali away. Kamala writes her painful story in a magazine. The story reveals her plan to end her life. Can Radha and Murali save her in time?
“A lotus heart, a painful love”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Thamarai Nenjam
Cast reunions in this film: Nagesh & M. S. Viswanathan (108 films together), M. S. Viswanathan & Major Sundarrajan (54 films together), Nagesh & Major Sundarrajan (43 films together), K. Balachander & M. S. Viswanathan (27 films together), M. S. Viswanathan & Gemini Ganesan (27 films together), and Nagesh & Gemini Ganesan (25 films together).
Trivia
- This was the first Tamil film directed by K. Balachander, who later became a legendary filmmaker.
- The film's story is based on a popular Tamil novel of the same name by novelist Sivasankari.
- Actress Jayalalithaa played a supporting role, which was one of her early film appearances.
- The movie's music was composed by M.S. Viswanathan, a leading composer of that era.
- It was produced under the banner of Sivaji Productions, a company owned by actor Sivaji Ganesan.
- The plot revolves around a magazine writer, a profession less commonly shown in films of that time.
- Despite being a directorial debut, it showcased Balachander's signature focus on complex human relationships.