Thozhilali(1964)
Thozhilali (1964) is a Tamil-language drama film directed by M. A. Thirumugam and produced by Sandow M. M. A. Chinnappa Thevar. The film stars M. G. Ramachandran, K. R. Vijaya, and Rathna in lead roles. The story follows Raju, a poor but hardworking young man who rises from poverty through honest labour. He faces jealousy, betrayal, and loss but never gives up. The film was inspired by Thevar's own early life as a milk supplier. It was released on 25 September 1964 and became a commercial success, running for over 100 days in theatres. Critics praised Thirumugam's direction and the performances of the cast.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Sun NXT, Airtel Xstream Play, YouTube
- Theatrical Release
- 25 September 1964
- Director
- M. A. Thirumugham
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 20m
- Rating
- 7.5/10
Storyline
Raju is a poor young man who works tirelessly to support his widowed mother. He joins a bus company and earns the trust of his boss Murugappan. But when Murugappan's daughter Meena falls for Raju and he rejects her, Raju loses his job and faces ruin. He must rebuild his life with the help of a kind woman named Vijaya.
“Hard work never fails.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Thozhilali
Cast reunions in this film: Nagesh & Manorama (39 films together), K. R. Vijaya & Nagesh (38 films together), Nagesh & K. V. Mahadevan (37 films together), M. N. Nambiar & M. G. Ramachandran (37 films together), K. V. Mahadevan & M. G. Ramachandran (31 films together), and K. V. Mahadevan & M. R. Radha (31 films together).
Trivia
- The film was produced by A. L. Srinivasan, a major figure in Tamil cinema who also acted in it.
- It was one of the few films where M. G. Ramachandran played a common laborer, not a heroic or wealthy character.
- The movie's music was composed by K. V. Mahadevan, a frequent collaborator with director M. A. Thirumugam.
- The story highlights class differences, a recurring theme in Tamil social dramas of the 1960s.
- Actress B. Saroja Devi, who played Meena, was a top star known for her roles in family dramas.
- The film released during a period when MGR's political image was being shaped through his cinema roles.
- Director M. A. Thirumugam was known for his efficient, commercially successful films, often with family themes.