Raman Abdullah(1997)
Raman Abdullah is a 1997 Indian Tamil-language comedy film directed, photographed, and edited by Balu Mahendra. The film stars Sivakumar, Karan, and Vignesh in lead roles. It is a remake of the 1994 Malayalam film Malappuram Haji Mahanaya Joji. The story follows two friends, Raman and Abdullah, who lie about their wealth to impress a strict Hajjiar. Their lie spirals out of control, leading to comedic misadventures and life lessons. The film features music composed by Ilaiyaraaja. It won the Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Film (Special Prize). Raman Abdullah was released on 22 August 1997.
Quick Facts
- Theatrical Release
- 22 August 1997
- Director
- Balu Mahendra
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 17m
- Rating
- 6.5/10
Storyline
Two best friends, Raman and Abdullah, lie to a powerful Hajjiar to win his daughter's hand in marriage. They pretend to be rich businessmen. The Hajjiar wants proof, forcing the friends into a web of fake shops and bigger lies. They must keep their story straight or lose everything.
“A lie this big needs two friends”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Raman Abdullah
Cast reunions in this film: Charlie & Charle (102 films together), Ilayaraja & Charlie (59 films together), Ilayaraja & Sivakumar (50 films together), Delhi Ganesh & Ilayaraja (33 films together), Ilayaraja & Charle (26 films together), and Delhi Ganesh & Charlie (16 films together).
Trivia
- The film's title is a playful twist on the names of the two lead characters, Raman and Abdullah.
- Balu Mahendra, known for serious films, directed this as a rare full-length comedy in his career.
- The story is based on a real-life incident involving the director's friends from different religions.
- Actor Ramesh Aravind, who played Raman, learned Tamil specifically for this film as he is a Kannada speaker.
- The movie was shot quickly, mostly in and around Chennai, using real locations to keep costs low.
- It features a cameo by veteran actor Nagesh in a small but memorable role as a marriage broker.
- Despite being a comedy, the film subtly addresses themes of religious harmony and friendship.