Ponni (1976 film)


Ponni is a 1976 Malayalam language film, scripted and directed by Thoppil Bhasi, based on Malayattoor Ramakrishnan's novel of the same name. Produced by M. O. Joseph under the banner of Manjilas, the film features music by G. Devarajan, cinematography by Balu Mahendra and editing by M. S. Mani. It has Kamal Haasan as the protagonist and Lakshmi in the eponymous role. The supporting cast includes Soman, Adoor Bhasi, Sankaradi, Bahadoor, Janardhanan, Rajakumari and K. P. A. C. Lalitha. The film was dubbed into Tamil as Kollimalai Maaveeran and Telugu as Kondaraju Koyapilla.

Plot

The film is based on the lifestyle of the Adivasis of Attappady at Malleswaram hills. Slash and burn cultivation practised by the Adivasis was suddenly stopped by the Government, forcing them to search for new jobs. The hero changes his hair style to suit the times. The courtship dance and traditional songs were depicted in a realistic way.

Writing

The film is based on Malayattoor's famous novel titled Ponni. The novel was written in 1966-67 and was inspired by true stories that Malayattoor heard when he worked as Ottappalam sub-collector during 1959 - 1961.

Cast

The music was composed by G. Devarajan with lyrics by P. Bhaskaran.
;Tamil Version
Tamil lyrics were written by Deva Narayanan. playback singers are Sherin Peter, Sasirekha, T. R. Sarojarani and Harimathavan.