From evocative melodies to heart-pounding rhythms, the songs featured in Vijayakant’s films stand as a testament to the actor’s enduring charm and the sheer musical genius that accompanied his cinematic ventures. The melody ‘Etho Ninivugal Kanavugal Manathile Malaruthey; Kaveri Ootrakavey,’ graced his second film, ‘Agal Vilakku,’ alongside the late actress Shoba, reflecting the actor’s heartfelt aspirations. Crafted by none other than the legendary composer Ilaiyaraaja, these songs serenade listeners with the essence of the Tamil film industry’s golden era.
In a realm where certain physical attributes are often glorified, Vijayakant’s emergence as a film hero surprised many. His slim frame and darker complexion did not adhere to the traditional standards of a leading man. Yet, this did not hinder his success, which spanned not only in film but in the political arena as well.
Reflecting on the soul-stirring music in his films, Vijayakant humbly credited Ilaiyaraaja for the timeless tunes. He admitted that his input was reserved primarily for action scenes, not for the melodies that have come to define his films.
Songs such as ‘Antha Vaanatha Pola Manam Padaicha Mannavaney’ in ‘Chinna Gounder’ resonated with the audience, paralleling the pathos found in ‘Then Pandi Seemayile’ from Kamal Haasan’s ‘Nayagan’. The lyrics encapsulated the generosity and approachability inherent in Vijayakant’s persona.
The industry witnessed Vijayakant’s growing stardom well before Ilaiyaraaja’s collaboration. ‘Thoorathu Idi Muzhakkam’ blessed listeners with the poignant ‘Ullamellam Thalladuthey’. This film, with Salil Chaudhary at the helm of its music, also gained international attention at the International Film Festival of India.
Unforgettable was ‘Vaidehi Kaathirunthal’, where all seven of Ilaiyaraaja’s compositions – a rarity – were woven into the narrative, enriching Vijayakant’s portrayal of Vellaisamy. Following its release, songs like ‘Rasathi Unna Kaanatha Nenju’ and ‘Kaathirunthu Kaathirunthu’ became cultural monoliths, enthralling audiences for decades.
Similarly, ‘Amman Kovil Kizhakkale’ provided yet another musical feast. The tenderness of ‘Poove Eduthu Oru Malai Thoduthu Vacheney’ to the vigor of ‘Kaalai Neera Poonguil’ showcased Ilaiyaraaja’s expansive musical palette. ‘Vizhiye Vilakontru Etru’ from ‘Thaluvatha Kaigal’ perfectly captured the subtleties of romance.
Even as years have passed, the melodies from ‘Ninaive Oru Sangeetham’ linger on. Online platforms are rife with praise for the film’s tracks such as ‘Eduthu Vacha Paalum’ and ‘Ettramaiya Etham’. ‘Mayanginen Solla Thayanginen’ from ‘Naane Raja Naane Manthiri’ and ‘Kaan Karunguyile’ from ‘Poonthotta Kavalkaran’ evidenced how a song could eclipse the fame of the film itself.
His ventures were not only cherished for their artistic expression but also served to crystallize his political image. ‘Captain Prabhakaran’ was a turning point that bolstered Vijayakant’s journey toward political ambitions. ‘Paasamulla Paantiyeray’ and ‘Aatama Therottama’ became synonymous with energy and resolve, mirroring the actor’s own political ethos.
Vijayakant’s contributions to the Tamil cinema landscape are heavily punctuated by the melodies his films boasted. An actor known for his humility and resilience, his career progression from the big screen to the realm of politics was, in a significant way, underscored by the harmonious symphony of his filmography’s music. It’s the enduring quality of these songs that has preserved the legacy of Vijayakant’s works, creating an indelible mark in the hearts of fans and admirers alike.
