Kalikaalam(1992)
Kalikaalam is a 1992 Indian Tamil-language drama film directed and written by Panchu Arunachalam. It stars Nizhalgal Ravi as Raghuraman and Radhika Sarathkumar as Janaki, with Brahmanandam in a supporting role. The story follows a daily wage worker struggling to provide for his family and arrange marriages for his children amid poverty and debt. The film features a musical score by Ilaiyaraaja. It is known for its realistic portrayal of lower-middle-class life in Tamil Nadu. The runtime is 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Eros Now, Airtel Xstream Play
- Theatrical Release
- 17 July 1992
- Director
- Panchu Arunachalam
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 2h 15m
- Rating
- 6.5/10
Storyline
Raghuraman is a poor daily wage worker who dreams of marrying off his children. But poverty, debt, and his children's mistakes push his family to the edge. Can he find the strength to forgive and keep his family together?
“Love is stronger than money”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Kalikaalam
Cast reunions in this film: Ilayaraja & Janagaraj (59 films together), Raadhika Sarathkumar & Ilayaraja (44 films together), Venniradai Moorthy & Ilayaraja (42 films together), Nizhalgal Ravi & Ilayaraja (34 films together), Delhi Ganesh & Ilayaraja (33 films together), and Ilayaraja & Panchu Arunachalam (26 films together).
Trivia
- The film was produced by director Panchu Arunachalam's own production company, Panchu Arts.
- It was one of the few films where actor Vijayakumar played a central, working-class protagonist role.
- The movie's title 'Kalikaalam' translates to 'Hard Times', directly reflecting the story's theme.
- The soundtrack was composed by Gangai Amaran, brother of famous music director Ilaiyaraaja.
- The film released during a period when Tamil cinema saw many social dramas about economic struggle.
- Actress Radha made a special appearance in the film, which was a notable casting choice at the time.