Kuravanji


Kuravanji is a Tamil language film directed by A. Kasilingam. The film features Sivaji Ganesan and Savitri in the lead roles. The film, produced by Mu. Karunanidhi, R. M. Veerappan, and A. Kasilingam under Mekala Pictures had musical score by T. R. Pappa and was released on 4 March 1960. Despite the fine and poetic dialogue by Mu. Karunanidhi, performances by top-ranking stars and supporting cast, captivating dances and pleasing music, the film did not do well.

Plot

The film tells the story of Thenpandiko, the king of Inbapuri. Ellaipuram is a part of the kingdom and the king appoints his brother, Mukhari, to rule it. Mukhari has a minister, Imaya, who has evil designs. Mukhari falls prey to his evil plans, and besides taking over Ellaipuram, he plans to usurp Inbapuri from his brother.
To help the suffering people enter a man named Kadhiravan, hailing from the royal family. He moves around the kingdom in the guise of a vagabond. Princess Kumari wishes to marry him, while he falls in love with Ponni, who is from the fisherfolk community. Coming to know of this, Kadhiravan's brother is furious. The princess is equally upset, but Kadhiravan is more interested in saving the people. Soon there is a protest led by him that gains momentum. What happens to it is narrated in the latter half of the film.

Cast

Cast according to the songbook:
;Male cast
;Female cast
;Dance
Prior to Sivaji Ganesan, actor S. S. Rajendran was offered the lead role in Kuravanji. However, due to some "friction" between him and Karunanidhi, the writer of the film, he was replaced. During the shoot, Ganesan chose to wear a gunny sack instead of the woollen clothes that were given to him. He wanted to "connect with the reality of the character of a tribesman."

Soundtrack

The music was composed by T. R. Pappa. Lyrics were by Thirikooda Rasappa Kavirayar, Thanjai N. Ramaiah Dass, Kannadasan, Mu. Karunanidhi & Kudanthai R. Krishnamurthi. Playback singers are C. S. Jayaraman, A. L. Raghavan, P. Leela, P. Suseela, Jikki, K. Jamuna Rani, M. S. Rajeswari, A. P. Komala & T. V. Rathinam.