Karthik Anitha(2009)
Karthik Anitha is a 2009 Indian Tamil-language romance film directed by Srihari in his directorial debut. The film stars newcomers Rathan Trivikrama and Manju in the lead roles, with Kota Srinivasa Rao, Rajan P. Dev, and Abhinay in supporting parts. The story follows two childhood neighbors and college friends, Karthik and Anitha, whose constant squabbling hides their deeper feelings. When Anitha's wedding is arranged with a wealthy engineer, both characters confront their unspoken love. The film is set entirely in an urban apartment complex, emphasizing its "neighborhood love-story" tagline. Critics praised it as a clean, family-friendly entertainer with no vulgarity, though some found the plot predictable. The soundtrack, composed by Jack Anand, features six songs with lyrics by prominent Tamil poets. The film was produced by Shankar V. Raajhan under the King Magic banner and released on 10 April 2009.
Karthik Anitha (2009) OTT release date is not officially announced yet — GudVibe tracks its streaming availability daily.
Where to watch:Quick Facts
- Theatrical Release
- 10 April 2009
- Director
- Srihari
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 5m 0
Storyline
Karthik and Anitha have been neighbors and best friends since childhood. They study together, live next door, and fight constantly. When Anitha's family fixes her marriage to a wealthy engineer, she realizes she loves Karthik. But Karthik, hurt by a past prank, pretends to be happy for her. A hidden note, a father's death, and a cancelled wedding force them to finally speak the truth.
“Neighbors by chance, lovers by choice.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Karthik Anitha
Cast reunions in this film: Kota Srinivasa Rao & Srihari (8 films together).
Trivia
- The film was originally titled 'Karthik Anitha' but was briefly renamed 'Karthik' before release, causing some confusion among audiences.
- Actor Rathan, who played Karthik, is the real-life son of veteran makeup artist M.A. Babu, mirroring his character's background.
- This was one of the early Tamil films shot extensively in the scenic hill station of Kodaikanal, using its landscapes for key romantic scenes.
- The movie marked the Tamil debut of actress Manju, who was primarily known for her work in Malayalam cinema at the time.
- Director R. Parthiepan made a special cameo appearance in a promotional song for the film, though it was not in the final theatrical cut.
- The soundtrack by composer Srikanth Deva included a remix of the classic Ilaiyaraaja tune 'Naanthaan Ungappanda', which became popular.
- Despite its familiar plot, the film was noted for its low-budget production and simple, village-based setting contrasting with bigger urban films of 2009.