In an intriguing turn of events in the world of Tamil cinema, an enduring tale that has left a profound impact on an aspiring filmmaker has finally unfolded into a motion picture. Back in 2014, a video surfaced on the internet showcasing an Indian army officer teaching his young daughter the empowering Tamil song “Achamillai Achamillai” by the iconic poet Subramania Bharati. This heartwarming act piqued the curiosity of filmmaker Rajkumar Periasamy, setting him on a journey that would eventually lead to the making of the film ‘Amaran’.
Fast forward to today, ‘Amaran’ is ready to grace cinema screens, with popular actor Sivakarthikeyan portraying the character inspired by that very officer, Major Mukund Varadarajan. Major Varadarajan, a name many revere, was an exemplary Indian Army officer who met his demise in the line of duty during operations in the volatile region of Kashmir. He was posthumously awarded the Ashok Chakra, India’s highest peacetime military decoration, for his indomitable courage and sacrifice. This film, releasing this Deepavali, delves into the legacy, virtues, and the lesser-known personal life of the commendable soldier.
Rajkumar Periasamy, who previously directed the film ‘Rangoon’ in 2017, recounts that the genesis of ‘Amaran’ was rooted in his admiration for the innate values Major Varadarajan held. “Teaching his daughter the patriotic song, ‘Achamillai Achamillai’, epitomizes the essence of the man that Major Mukund was,” Rajkumar reflects. “He wasn’t just a soldier; he was a person defined by strong morals and idealism.”
The film ambitiously aims to depict who Major Varadarajan was, beyond the uniform. It portrays not just his days as an officer but also those formative years he spent at Madras Christian College. It was here that he met Indhu Rebecca Varghese, a significant person in his life, portrayed by the talented Sai Pallavi. Rajkumar mentions how the audience’s demand for larger-than-life cinema is inherently met by the true-stories of army personnel.
. “Mukund, the hero, originated from Mukund, the human being,” the director states, underscoring the seamless blend of personal and professional experiences of the soldier.
The project gained substantial support and was brought to fruition with none other than Kamal Haasan at its helm as a producer. Upon hearing the concept, Kamal Haasan was so moved that he expressed a wish to have extended his years to share with the heroic Major, a testament to the story’s impact. Sivakarthikeyan, renowned for his roles in family-friendly comedies and dramas, has taken on this more serious role with profound respect and dedication. Rajkumar sees ‘Amaran’ as an essential pivot in Sivakarthikeyan’s career—a chance to showcase versatility and depth.
Important to the narrative is the role of Indhu Rebecca Varghese, Major Varadarajan’s life partner, whose story is inseparable from his. This portrayal, undertaken by Sai Pallavi, is central to the emotional fabric of the movie, so much so that the actress ensured her scenes would not be compromised. “The relationship shared by Mukund and Indhu is the emotional compass of the film,” Rajkumar confirms, whose portrayal promises to resonate with realism and authenticity.
A significant portion of the filming transpired in Kashmir, which Rajkumar emphasizes was not merely a backdrop but an influential character within the film. The team faced challenging conditions, juggling tough terrains and sensitive political settings, but the presence and support of the Indian Army were invaluable. Recollecting the first day of filming with a special prayer ceremony at the 44 Rashtriya Rifles headquarters, Rajkumar shares emotional moments invoking the memory of the fallen soldiers there.
With ‘Amaran’ set to release in theaters on October 31, the film not only seeks to entertain but to celebrate the life and legacy of a valiant hero. The narrative intertwines bravery and human spirit, promising to offer audiences an inspiring journey both on and off the battlefield. Fans and admirers of Tamil cinema will find in ‘Amaran’ a testament to true stories that resonate beyond the screen, embodying the heroism and humanity of men like Major Mukund Varadarajan.
