Kandan Karunai(1967)
'Kandan Karunai' is a 1967 Indian Tamil-language Hindu mythological film written and directed by A. P. Nagarajan. The ensemble cast includes Sivaji Ganesan, Gemini Ganesan, K. B. Sundarambal, Savitri, Jayalalithaa, K. R. Vijaya, and Sivakumar. The film chronicles the life of Lord Murugan, covering his birth from six sparks of fire, his battle against the demon Soorapadman, and his marriages to Deivanai and Valli. It is structured around the six sacred abodes of Murugan, known as the Arupadaiveedu. The music by K. V. Mahadevan won the National Film Award for Best Music Direction. The film also marks the debut of child actress Sridevi, who played young Murugan. It was released on 10 August 1967.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Amazon Prime Video, YouTube
- Theatrical Release
- 31 December 1967
- Director
- A. P. Nagarajan
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 55m
- Rating
- 7.5/10
Storyline
Lord Murugan, the son of Shiva, must defeat the demon king Soorapadman who has captured heaven. Along the way, he teaches his father the meaning of 'OM', argues with his brother Ganesha over a fruit, and marries two wives. The story visits each of his six sacred homes.
“Witness the mercy of Lord Murugan.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Kandan Karunai
Cast reunions in this film: Sivaji Ganesan & K. V. Mahadevan (35 films together), Sivaji Ganesan & Jayalalitha (20 films together), K. V. Mahadevan & Jayalalitha (16 films together), K. V. Mahadevan & A. P. Nagarajan (14 films together), Sivaji Ganesan & A. P. Nagarajan (12 films together), and Sivakumar & K. V. Mahadevan (10 films together).
Trivia
- The film was shot in Gevacolor, a rare color process for Tamil cinema at the time.
- It was the first Tamil film to feature the actor Sivaji Ganesan in a mythological role.
- The director, A. P. Nagarajan, was known for his devotion and often filmed after temple prayers.
- A real peacock was trained to appear in the scenes with Lord Muruga, its divine vehicle.
- The movie's success led to a series of mythological films from the same director.
- It reused elaborate sets and costumes from Nagarajan's earlier film 'Thiruvilayadal' to save costs.
- The film's soundtrack by K. V. Mahadevan is still used in temple festivals today.