In the world of cinema, where stories transcend borders and emotions run deep, Rajkumar Periasamy’s upcoming release, “Amaran,” is set to make waves this Deepavali with its poignant tale rooted in true events. The film, featuring popular actor Sivakarthikeyan, unravels the inspiring journey of Major Mukund Varadarajan, an Indian Army officer whose life was tragically cut short during a counter-insurgency operation in Kashmir. Crowned posthumously with the Ashok Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry award, Major Mukund’s story is infused with bravery, love, and duty.
While the world of cinema often spotlights larger-than-life characters, “Amaran” promises a narrative that stems from real heroism, as embodied by Major Mukund. The inspiration for the film arose in 2014 when filmmaker Rajkumar Periasamy was captivated by a video showing an armyman teaching his young daughter the patriotic Tamil song, “Achamillai Achamillai,” penned by the famed poet Subramania Bharati. This moment of patriotism resonated with Rajkumar, prompting him to delve deeper into the life of the soldier, Major Mukund.
Acknowledging the gravitas of Major Mukund’s story, Rajkumar embarked on a mission to honor the officer’s legacy on the silver screen. Sharing his initial vision with acclaimed actor and director Kamal Haasan, Rajkumar found an enthusiastic supporter who agreed to produce the film. “When I pitched the idea to Kamal sir, he was profoundly moved and mentioned, ‘I wish I could have given 30 years from my life to this boy,’” Rajkumar recollects. This backing was instrumental in bringing “Amaran” to life.
To embody the character of Major Mukund Varadarajan, Sivakarthikeyan, a versatile actor with an illustrious career in Tamil cinema, was chosen. Rajkumar was confident that Sivakarthikeyan, known for his respect towards the armed forces, would do justice to the role. “He was ready to transform himself for this role, which marks an important transition in his career,” says the director, emphasizing the actor’s dedication to the project.
Integral to Major Mukund’s story is his partner, Indhu Rebecca Varghese, portrayed by Sai Pallavi.
. Her involvement in the film is pivotal, serving as the emotional core that enriches the narrative. Sai Pallavi’s commitment to preserving the authenticity of Indhu’s influence led her to ensure her scenes were not curtailed. “Indhu was Mukund’s unwavering support, essential to telling his story accurately,” notes Rajkumar, highlighting her substantial contribution.
A substantial portion of the film was shot in Kashmir, against the backdrop of the stunning yet challenging terrain where Major Mukund bravely served. For Rajkumar, Kashmir was not just a filming location; it was a character integral to the film’s authenticity. The first day of shooting at the 44 Rashtriya Rifles headquarters was particularly memorable for Rajkumar and his team. “We participated in a special puja arranged by Colonel Gaurav Dixit, and it set the tone for the rest of our journey,” Rajkumar recalls. Despite the operational challenges and political sensitivities, the crew was aided by soldiers who ensured their safety and cooperation during the shoot.
“Amaran” offers audiences more than just a cinematic experience; it is a tribute to the life and sacrifices of Major Mukund, intertwining his personal and professional life. The film captures the essence of a soldier who, above all, was a devoted father and partner, instilling timeless values in his family even in the face of uncertainty.
Scheduled to hit theaters on October 31, “Amaran” promises to be a milestone in Tamil cinema, merging factual storytelling with compelling performances. As viewers prepare for this emotional roller coaster, they will gain insight into the life of an extraordinary individual whose deeds continue to inspire a nation. With Rajkumar Periasamy’s meticulous direction and Sivakarthikeyan’s transformative portrayal, “Amaran” stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of a true Indian hero.
