Mayabazar(1995)
Mayabazar is a 1957 Indian Hindu mythological film directed by K. V. Reddy. It was produced by Nagi Reddi and Chakrapani under Vijaya Productions. The film stars N. T. Rama Rao as Krishna, S. V. Ranga Rao as Ghatotkacha, and Savitri as Sasirekha. The story adapts the folk tale Sasirekha Parinayam from the Mahabharata. It follows the half-demon Ghatotkacha as he uses magic to reunite the lovers Abhimanyu and Sasirekha. The film is celebrated for its innovative special effects, including the first illusion of moonlight in Indian cinema. It was shot simultaneously in Telugu and Tamil with different casts. The Telugu version released on 27 March 1957, and the Tamil version on 12 April 1957. It became a silver-jubilee hit and is considered a landmark in Indian cinema.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Amazon Prime Video
- Theatrical Release
- 12 August 1995
- Director
- Keyaar
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 55m
- Rating
- 7.5/10
Storyline
When the Pandavas lose their kingdom in a rigged dice game, Balarama breaks his promise to marry his daughter Sasirekha to Abhimanyu. He instead agrees to a marriage with the Kaurava prince. The half-demon Ghatotkacha decides to use his magical powers to create an illusory market and trick everyone. Can he reunite the lovers before it is too late?
“Where love meets magic.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Mayabazar
Trivia
- The film's title 'Mayabazar' is a nod to a classic 1957 Telugu fantasy film, but this 1995 version is a completely different horror-comedy story.
- Actor Kothandam Ramaiah, who directed the film, is better known as a popular comedian in Tamil cinema from the 1960s onwards.
- The movie features a dual role for actress Roja, playing both the murdered heroine Suji and the fake exorcist Mayamma.
- This was one of the early Tamil films to blend horror and comedy genres, coming before the trend became more popular in the 2000s.
- The soundtrack was composed by Deva, who was known for creating catchy folk and dance numbers during this period in Tamil cinema.
- Despite its dramatic plot, the film is primarily remembered as a comedy due to the scenes involving the fake exorcist character.
- The film's release coincided with a wave of Tamil films exploring ghost themes, but it stood out for its focus on revenge from a female spirit.