Mani Ratnam

On the eve of the release of ‘Kaatru Veliyidai’, I am in awe of the director Mani Ratnam, I have always been – ever since I saw ‘Mouna Ragam’ 31 years ago. I am just going to touch upon few of his great merits, in my opinion.

At 61, his films are so STYLISH & YOUTHFUL – catering more to the urban audience. Take his last success ‘O Kadhal Kanmani’, beats me how he could think of an aged couple at the brink of life, paired with a young couple in a live-in relationship. At his age (not that age is a deterrent), I wonder how he could think, execute so youthfully and also entertainingly! Thullal | Taka Taka Taka Kottum!

ROMANCE, he must be in love everyday of his life. Take his film ‘Alaipayuthey’, capturing emotions before and after marriage of a young couple. For someone with one wife, all his life, I wonder from where he draws inspiration. It may not have seen big success, but can anybody forget the love portions on the electric train? Evergreen | Pachchai Nirame!

SOCIAL CAUSE, quickly from the top of my mind comes ‘Anjali’, the story of a mentally ill child and the mother who cries for her attention. It is not only a film for adults, but also a lesson for kids. To be socially responsible for a director is not necessary – but he does, he lets his film do all the talking. Minnum | Pesum Singaravelan!

For someone who had no prior experience nor worked as an assistant director, Padma Shri Mani Ratnam is a favorite of many movie lovers, like me.

Just can’t wait for tomorrow..