The opening scenes of “Raghu Thatha” transport the audience back to the transformative decade of the 1960s. As the credits roll, newspaper clippings narrate pivotal moments of that era, setting the stage for an engaging narrative. We witness Tamil Nadu, a state vehemently opposed to the imposition of Hindi, resonating with anti-Hindi slogans and protests. The nation sees Indira Gandhi stepping into history as the first woman Prime Minister of India, symbolizing a new dawn of empowerment for women across India. However, this symbolic leap does little for our film’s protagonist, Kayalvizhi, growing up in the secluded village of Valluvanpettai in Tamil Nadu.
When the audience first encounters Kayalvizhi (brilliantly played by Keerthy Suresh), she is visibly out of place in a shirt, defying the conventional female dress code of her time. Her mother’s admonishment to dress appropriately is met with a sharp retort: “Ponna adakamalan iruka mudiyathu” (I refuse to conform to being a proper lady). It’s evident that defiance is ingrained in her, manifesting through every word and action. This character’s audacity and refusal to conform are apparent right from her first dialogue, making it clear that Kayalvizhi has encountered such reprimands countless times throughout her life.
Kayal’s defiant nature resurfaces dramatically later in the film, especially when a marriage proposal is thrust upon her against her will. She boldly tells the suitor’s father, “Mandaya odachuduven” (I’ll crack your head open). Throughout the movie, Kayalvizhi constantly resists societal pressures to “behave like a girl,” standing firm in her beliefs and independence.
Her rebellious spirit extends beyond personal boundaries into the public sphere. Actively participating in anti-Hindi protests, she spearheads the closure of a Hindi prachar sabha in her village, much to the dismay of certain local figures. Interestingly, this fierce independence seems to be an inherited trait from her grandfather, portrayed by MS Bhaskar. Bhaskar continues his excellent streak in Tamil cinema with a nuanced performance in “Raghu Thatha.” His character enjoys a close bond with Kayalvizhi, a relationship far more intense and meaningful than the one she shares with her parents. This grandfather-granddaughter relationship forms the emotional core of the film, driving its narrative forward.
The crux of the story hinges on Bhaskar’s character pressing Kayalvizhi to do something against her innate wishes.
. This familial bond and moral dilemma present a compelling premise: will Kayal bend her will for her beloved grandfather?
One of the standout features of “Raghu Thatha” is its irreverence and humor. Even segments with serious undertones are punctuated with light-hearted, often hilarious moments. The humor isn’t restricted to the leads; other characters contribute significantly. For instance, Kayal’s brother’s wife, despite her limited screen time, manages to elicit spontaneous applause from the audience with her sharp wit. Two small-town criminals also seize the spotlight in a particular phase, adding layers of humor to the storyline. And, of course, MS Bhaskar’s poker-faced comic timing delivers ample laughs.
However, the film could have trimmed some of the initial exchanges between Kayal and Selvam (played by Ravindra Vijay). While Ravindra Vijay’s performance is commendable, the transformation in his character’s attitude throughout the film lacks clarity and depth.
Directed by Suman Kumar, known for his successful series “The Family Man” and “Farzi,” “Raghu Thatha” adopts a leisurely pace initially but compensates with a gripping, roller-coaster ride in the final 20 minutes, leaving viewers with a content smile. Composer Sean Roldan’s musical score adds a rich, enjoyable layer to the film. Noteworthy is the track ‘Poruthhiru Selva,’ sung by SP Charan, which evokes nostalgia for the legendary SP Balasubrahmanyam.
At the heart of “Raghu Thatha” stands Keerthy Suresh with yet another stellar performance. She brings a natural charm to Kayalvizhi, making even the film’s message-heavy sequences feel light and accessible. Keerthy’s portrayal is imbued with authenticity, primarily through subtleties and understated nuances, providing a compelling anchor for the film. Her ability to “just be” in most of the scenes underscores her proficiency as an actress.
In conclusion, “Raghu Thatha” masterfully blends satire, humor, and poignant social commentary, drawing viewers into its world. The film brilliantly captures the essence of a bygone era, brought vividly to life by exceptional performances and astute direction. The movie is currently running in theatres and promises an enriching experience for Tamil cinema enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.
