In a remarkable journey from an aspiring storyteller to a full-fledged film director, Rajkumar Periasamy presents an evocative cinematic tribute to Major Mukund Varadarajan, the esteemed Indian Army hero who sacrificed his life during counter-insurgency operations in Kashmir. His film, ‘Amaran,’ starring the prominent Tamil actor Sivakarthikeyan, is set to captivate audiences this Deepavali, as it unfolds with both grandeur and deep emotional resonance.
Back in 2014, a seemingly simple yet deeply moving video captured Rajkumar’s imagination—a soldier, passionately teaching his three-year-old daughter the patriotic song ‘Achamillai Achamillai’ penned by the legendary Tamil poet Subramania Bharati. This moment kindled Rajkumar’s curiosity about the soldier’s life, fueling his inspiration for what would eventually become ‘Amaran.’
The film, set to release on October 31, delves into the life and times of Major Mukund Varadarajan, an extraordinary individual whose dedication to duty earned him the Ashok Chakra, India’s highest peace-time military award, albeit posthumously. For Rajkumar, the major’s ability to impart such cultural and patriotic values to his daughter, without foreseeing his impending fate, encapsulated the essence of his character and valor.
More than a portrayal of heroism, ‘Amaran’ seeks to shed light on the man behind the uniform. Audiences will get a glimpse into Mukund’s formative years at Madras Christian College, where the foundations of his future were laid alongside meeting his life partner, Indhu Rebecca Varghese, portrayed by the talented Sai Pallavi. “Mukund the soldier is intrinsically linked to Mukund the person,” asserts Rajkumar. “His life is filled with the larger-than-life moments that cinema thrives on.”
Sold on the power of this narrative, renowned actor and filmmaker Kamal Haasan took on the role of producer for ‘Amaran.’ Deeply moved upon hearing Rajkumar’s pitch, Kamal Haasan remarked, “I wish I could have given 30 years from my life to this boy,” highlighting the story’s profound impact on him. Having collaborated with Kamal Haasan on the popular Tamil reality show Bigg Boss, Rajkumar was deeply honored to gain his support for the project.
Casting Sivakarthikeyan as Major Mukund marked a pivotal decision. Known for his versatility and dedication, the actor was eager to embody such a significant role that demanded transformation.
. Rajkumar emphasizes, “This film marks a significant evolution in Sivakarthikeyan’s career, as he steps into a role distinctly different from his previous works.”
Central to Mukund’s story is his relationship with Indhu Rebecca Varghese. Sai Pallavi’s interpretation of Indhu was deemed so vital that she reportedly signed a contract ensuring her scenes remained untouched. Rajkumar clarifies this choice, “Their shared story is the emotional core of the film. Mukund’s narrative cannot be separated from Indhu’s supportive and brave presence.”
Filming ‘Amaran’ required immersing themselves in the rugged and politically charged landscapes of Kashmir, where Major Mukund’s life and duty took him. The production unfolded in this challenging terrain, further adding layers to the narrative’s authenticity. On May 4, 2023, the first shooting day at the 44 Rashtriya Rifles headquarters was marked by a poignant remembrance ceremony organized by Colonel Gaurav Dixit in honor of fallen soldiers. Rajkumar recollects, “This experience reinforced the significance of what we were doing. The terrain was unforgiving, but the support from the soldiers was inspiring.”
As the release date approaches, Rajkumar reflects on Mukund’s family, whose resilience and willing participation enriched the film’s authenticity. Their readiness to discuss Mukund’s legacy and relive moments of his life encapsulates a shared catharsis. “Despite the real-life horrors, the family smiles as they reminisce about him,” Rajkumar notes, underlining the universal spirit of remembrance and honor.
With ‘Amaran,’ Rajkumar Periasamy not only weaves an intricate tapestry of Major Mukund Varadarajan’s life but also pays homage to the timeless values of bravery, love, and sacrifice that define the human spirit. As it premieres across theaters, ‘Amaran’ promises to be a cinematic journey that will resonate with audiences and create a lasting impact on the landscape of Tamil cinema.
