Desiya Geetham(1998)
'Desiya Geetham' is a 1998 Indian Tamil-language political drama film written and directed by Cheran. The film stars Murali, Rambha, Nassar, and Vijayakumar in lead roles. The story follows a group of villagers who kidnap a chief minister and force him to experience the hardships of rural life. The film was produced by R. Chandru, Abuthahir, Sathish Kumar, and G. V. Suresh Kumar. It was released on 19 October 1998, during the Diwali festival. The film won Cheran the Filmfare Award for Best Director – Tamil. The music was composed by Ilaiyaraaja. The film sparked controversy for its depiction of a chief minister's kidnapping, with then Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi reportedly displeased. Despite this, the film received positive reviews for its honest portrayal of village issues.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- YouTube, Eros Now, Airtel Xstream Play
- Theatrical Release
- 19 October 1998
- Director
- Cheran
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 40m 0
Storyline
A chief minister who has lost touch with the people is kidnapped by a group of villagers. Led by Pandian, they force him to live in their village and see the real problems — no water, no roads, no hospitals. The chief minister must confront the suffering he has ignored for years.
“Before the last Indian goes mad, let's do something.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Desiya Geetham
Cast reunions in this film: Nassar & Ilayaraja (49 films together), Ilayaraja & Vijayakumar (44 films together), Manivannan & Ilayaraja (41 films together), Ilayaraja & Murali (22 films together), Nassar & Manivannan (18 films together), and Manivannan & Anandaraj (15 films together).
Trivia
- The film was inspired by a real-life incident where a politician was forced to live in a village.
- It was director Cheran's first film as a lead actor, though he had directed earlier.
- The movie was shot in a single village location to keep the setting authentic.
- The film's release was delayed due to issues with the censor board over its political theme.
- It features a cameo by veteran actor Nagesh in a small but memorable role.
- The soundtrack by Ilaiyaraaja was praised but the film did not perform well commercially.
- Cheran reportedly lived in the village for weeks to prepare for his role and understand rural life.