Pattinathar(1962)
Pattinathar is a 1962 Indian Tamil-language devotional film directed by K. Somu. The film stars T. M. Soundararajan in the title role and M. R. Radha as the antagonist. It tells the story of a wealthy merchant who renounces his material life after realizing the impermanence of wealth. The screenplay was written by Thanjai N. Ramaiah Dass and Akilan. The film features music composed by G. Ramanathan with lyrics by T. K. Sundara Vaathiyaar and others. It marked the feature film debut of actor Major Sundarrajan. The movie is notable for its philosophical songs and strong devotional tone.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- VI Movies and TV, Sun NXT, Airtel Xstream Play, YouTube
- Theatrical Release
- 31 December 1962
- Director
- K. Somu
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 52m 0
Storyline
A rich merchant named Thiruvengadar adopts a baby boy sent by Lord Shiva. Years later, his son returns from a sea voyage with only cow dung cakes instead of riches. Inside the cakes are gold and gems, but the son leaves behind a palm leaf with a powerful message. The merchant realizes that nothing material follows us after death. He renounces everything and becomes the wandering saint Pattinathar.
“Not even an eyeless needle goes with you.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Pattinathar
Cast reunions in this film: Major Sundarrajan & M. R. Radha (2 films together), and M. R. Radha & Gemini chandra (2 films together).
Trivia
- The film is based on the life of Pattinathar, a revered Tamil saint and poet from the 10th century.
- It was one of the early Tamil films to be shot at the Vauhini Studios in Chennai.
- The movie's music was composed by K. V. Mahadevan, a frequent collaborator with director K. Somu.
- Actor Sivaji Ganesan was initially considered for the lead role before S. S. Rajendran was cast.
- The script was adapted from literary works by Tamil writer Akilan, who later won the Sahitya Akademi Award.
- A special dance sequence was choreographed by the noted dance master V. S. K. Sami to depict a historical festival.
- The film's release coincided with a renewed public interest in historical and biographical stories in Tamil cinema.