Punar Jenmam(1961)
Punar Jenmam is a 1961 Indian Tamil-language drama film directed by R. S. Mani. The film stars Sivaji Ganesan, Padmini, and Ragini in lead roles. The story follows Shankar, a talented artist whose alcoholism destroys his relationships and forces him to leave his village. He reforms himself in Madras but returns to find his mother dead and his lover Parvathi on the verge of suicide. The film was produced by N. S. Draviam under Vijaya Films and written by C. V. Sridhar. Cinematography was handled by Aloysius Vincent. The soundtrack was composed by T. Chalapathi Rao. Critics praised the climax as innovative but found the overall storyline familiar. The film was not a commercial success. It was released on 21 April 1961.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- YouTube
- Theatrical Release
- 20 January 1961
- Director
- R. S. Mani
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 28m
- Rating
- 7.5/10
Storyline
Shankar is a gifted artist whose addiction to alcohol destroys his life and breaks his mother's heart. He leaves his village for Madras to reform himself. When he returns a changed man, he finds his family home auctioned and his mother dead. His lover Parvathi attempts suicide. Shankar must save her and find redemption.
“Can a man be born again?”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Punar Jenmam
Cast reunions in this film: Sivaji Ganesan & Padmini (21 films together), Sivaji Ganesan & K. A. Thangavelu (10 films together), Sivaji Ganesan & C. V. Sridhar (7 films together), Padmini & K. A. Thangavelu (6 films together), Sivaji Ganesan & A. Vincent (5 films together), and C. V. Sridhar & A. Vincent (5 films together).
Trivia
- This was the only Tamil film directed by R.S. Mani, who was primarily a successful producer.
- The film's story is based on a popular radio play that had already captivated audiences.
- It was the first Tamil film to feature the popular actress Ragini alongside Sivaji Ganesan and Padmini.
- The title 'Punar Janmam' refers to the concept of reincarnation, a central theme in the plot.
- Composer T. Chalapathi Rao, known for his work in Telugu cinema, provided the music for this Tamil production.
- The film was produced under the Vijaya Films banner, which was co-owned by actor Sivaji Ganesan himself.
- Despite its star cast, the film did not achieve major commercial success upon its initial release.