Karnan(1964)
Karnan is a 1964 Indian Tamil-language epic Hindu mythological film produced and directed by B. R. Panthulu. The film stars Sivaji Ganesan as Karnan, alongside an ensemble cast including N. T. Rama Rao, S. A. Ashokan, R. Muthuraman, Savitri, Devika, and M. V. Rajamma. It is based on the life of Karna, a central character from the Hindu epic Mahabharata. The story follows Karnan from his abandonment as an infant to his tragic death in the Kurukshetra War. The film explores themes of friendship, caste discrimination, and sacrifice. It was the first Tamil film to be entirely shot and released in Eastmancolor. Karnan won the Certificate of Merit for the Third Best Feature Film at the 11th National Film Awards. It was released on 14 January 1964 during the Pongal festival.
Karnan is streaming on YouTube and Airtel Xstream Play.
Where to watch:Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- YouTube, Airtel Xstream Play
- Theatrical Release
- 13 January 1964
- Director
- B. R. Panthulu
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 55m
- Rating
- 8.5/10
Storyline
Abandoned at birth by his mother Kunti, Karnan grows up as a charioteer's son. He dreams of becoming a great warrior but is humiliated for his low birth. Prince Duryodhanan gives him a kingdom and his friendship. Karnan must choose between his true family, the Pandavas, and the friend who saved his pride.
“The king who gave everything”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Karnan
Cast reunions in this film: Sivaji Ganesan & R. Muthuraman (19 films together), Sivaji Ganesan & Viswanathan Ramamoorthy (18 films together), Sivaji Ganesan & Savitri (16 films together), Padmini Pictures & B. R. Panthulu (12 films together), Viswanathan Ramamoorthy & Savitri (9 films together), and Devika & Sivaji Ganesan (8 films together).
Trivia
- The film was shot in both Tamil and Kannada simultaneously, with Sivaji Ganesan playing Karna in both versions.
- It was the first Tamil film to be shot in 70mm widescreen format, making it a visual spectacle for its time.
- The movie's climax war scenes used over 1,000 junior artists, a massive scale for the 1960s.
- Sivaji Ganesan reportedly studied ancient texts to perfect his portrayal of Karna's mannerisms and archery.
- The film's soundtrack by Viswanathan–Ramamoorthy includes a rare classical-based lullaby sung by the male lead.
- It was a major box office success and ran for over 100 days in multiple theatres across South India.
- Director B. R. Panthulu also played the role of Dronacharya, showcasing his dual involvement.