In a stirring cinematic revelation, the upcoming film “Amaran,” starring popular Tamil actor Sivakarthikeyan, is set to grace screens this Deepavali. This film brings to life the inspiring story of Major Mukund Varadarajan, poignantly tracing his brave journey and the indelible impact he left behind. Directed by Rajkumar Periasamy, “Amaran” offers an in-depth portrayal of a man whose life was tragically cut short during a counter-insurgency operation in Kashmir, yet his spirit continues to resonate through the nation.
The genesis of “Amaran” traces back to 2014 when a seemingly simple yet powerful video captivated Rajkumar Periasamy’s imagination. The video depicted an armyman teaching the Tamil poet Subramania Bharati’s stirring song ‘Achamillai Achamillai’ to his young daughter. For Rajkumar, then an aspiring filmmaker, this portrayal of patriotism and fatherly love planted the seed of curiosity about the armyman — Major Mukund Varadarajan. This intrigue blossomed into a film that now sheds light on the major’s courage, showcasing both his personal and professional facets.
Major Mukund Varadarajan was a revered figure, admired not only for his gallantry in the face of danger but also for his values and dedication. His valiant efforts during his service with the 44 Rashtriya Rifles were recognized posthumously with the Ashok Chakra, India’s highest peacetime military decoration. Rajkumar admits to being moved by Mukund’s story and felt compelled to share it with the world. “He saw it as a duty to instill patriotism in his daughter through music,” Rajkumar notes, underlining the profound values Mukund embodied.
Beyond the battlefield, “Amaran” delves into Mukund’s personal life, offering glimpses into his days studying at Madras Christian College, where he met Indhu Rebecca Varghese, his future wife. Indhu’s role is deftly portrayed by actress Sai Pallavi, whose commitment to capturing the emotional depth of her character underscores her pivotal role in the narrative. Rajkumar emphasized the need to honor Indhu’s story alongside Mukund’s, as she was a pillar of support and strength in his life.
. Sai Pallavi, dedicated to preserving the integrity of her role, was committed to ensuring that none of her scenes were cut, reflecting the emotional core of the film.
“Amaran” also marks a significant chapter in Sivakarthikeyan’s cinematic career. Known for his versatility and charm, Sivakarthikeyan has embraced the challenge of portraying an army officer with sincerity and dedication. His transformation for the role speaks volumes about his respect for the armed forces and his eagerness to bring Major Mukund’s story to life. Director Rajkumar acknowledges this effort, viewing “Amaran” as an important milestone for the actor.
Stepping into the production side, the legendary Kamal Haasan lent his support as producer of “Amaran.” When Rajkumar presented the story to him, Kamal was deeply moved, remarking, “I wish I could have given 30 years from my life to this boy.” His involvement brings a layer of depth and credibility to the project, having previously collaborated with Rajkumar on the Tamil reality show Bigg Boss.
The narrative of “Amaran” takes audiences to Kashmir, not merely as a backdrop but as a character essential to the story. Filming in such a politically sensitive and physically challenging region posed numerous challenges, yet the team persevered with the support of the local soldiers. The shoot commenced at the 44 Rashtriya Rifles headquarters with a meaningful tribute to the martyrs, underscoring the emotional gravity of the project.
With its release scheduled for October 31, “Amaran” promises to be more than just a film; it’s an ode to heroism, duty, and the enduring human spirit. As the audience gears up to witness this saga, “Amaran” stands as a testament to the brave souls who put their nation before themselves, immortalized through the medium of cinema.
