Azhagi(2002)
Azhagi (2002) is a Tamil-language romantic drama film written and directed by Thangar Bachan in his directorial debut. The film stars Parthiban, Nandita Das, and Devayani in lead roles. It follows a veterinary doctor who reunites with his childhood sweetheart, now a poor widow, and hires her as his housemaid. The story explores the emotional tension that arises between the doctor, his wife, and the woman from his past. The film is based on Bachan's own short story 'Kalvettugal'. Azhagi won the Filmfare Award for Best Tamil Film and received critical acclaim for its realistic storytelling and performances. The music was composed by Ilaiyaraaja. The film was released on 14 January 2002 on Pongal day.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Sun NXT, Amazon Prime Video, Airtel Xstream Play, Plex
- Theatrical Release
- 14 January 2002
- Director
- Thangar Bachan
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 35m
- Rating
- 5.0/10
Storyline
A veterinary doctor named Shanmugam meets his childhood love Dhanam, now a poor widow living on the streets. He hires her as a maid in his own home to help her. But his wife Valarmathi grows jealous and suspicious. Old feelings and new tensions threaten to tear the family apart.
“Love that never fades, even after years”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Azhagi
Cast reunions in this film: Pandu & Ilayaraja (21 films together), Vivek & Pandu (20 films together), Vivek & Ilayaraja (16 films together), R. Parthiban & Ilayaraja (11 films together), Devayani & Ilayaraja (9 films together), and Vivek & Devayani (7 films together).
Trivia
- The film was originally titled 'Azhagiya Theeye' but was shortened to 'Azhagi' before release.
- Director Thangar Bachan's wife, Rohini, played the supporting role of Shanmugam's sister.
- The movie's music was composed by Ilaiyaraaja, marking one of his many collaborations with the director.
- It was shot primarily in real village locations in Tamil Nadu to capture authentic rural life.
- The film is noted for its minimal use of background score, relying more on silence and natural sounds.
- Actor Murali, who played Shanmugam, was known for his intense method acting in emotionally heavy roles.
- The story explores the theme of unfulfilled love, a recurring subject in Thangar Bachan's early films.