Periyar(2007)
Periyar is a 2007 Indian Tamil-language biographical film directed by Gnana Rajasekaran. It stars Sathyaraj as the social reformer Periyar E. V. Ramasamy, with Jyothirmayi, Khushbu Sundar, and Swarnamalya in supporting roles. The film chronicles Periyar's life from his childhood in Erode to his death, focusing on his fight against caste discrimination, his role in the Vaikom Satyagraha, and his leadership of the Self-Respect Movement. It also covers his split with C. N. Annadurai and the formation of the DMK. The film won the National Film Award for Best Tamil Feature Film. It was partly funded by the Government of Tamil Nadu and released on 4 May 2007.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Eros Now, Amazon Prime Video, Einthusan, Simply South
- Theatrical Release
- 4 May 2007
- Director
- Gnana Rajasekaran
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 3h 8m
- Rating
- 7.5/10
Storyline
After witnessing the cruelty of the caste system in Kashi, Periyar E. V. Ramasamy dedicates his life to social reform. He joins the freedom struggle, but leaves the Congress party when it refuses to support reservations. He then builds the Dravidar Kazhagam and launches the Self-Respect Movement, fighting for equality and rationalism.
“One man's fight for a just society.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Periyar
Cast reunions in this film: Kushboo & Manorama (15 films together), Sathyaraj & Manorama (10 films together), Sathyaraj & Kushboo (8 films together), Vidyasagar & Manorama (5 films together), Manorama & M.R.R.Vasu (5 films together), and Manorama & Kaikala Satyanarayana (3 films together).
Trivia
- The film was shot in over 100 locations across Tamil Nadu to authentically recreate the historical period.
- Director Gnana Rajasekaran is known for biographical films, having also directed ones on Subramania Bharati and Bharathidasan.
- Actor Sathyaraj, who played Periyar, reportedly studied many hours of archival footage to mimic his speech and mannerisms.
- The movie's release was delayed due to controversies and debates about its portrayal of Periyar's ideologies.
- It features a cameo by director K. Balachander as Rajaji, a significant political figure of the era.
- The film did not perform well commercially, as it was seen more as an educational historical drama than mainstream entertainment.
- Some dialogues in the film were directly adapted from Periyar's original speeches and writings for accuracy.