At a time when movies carrying social themes were the order of the day, came Thiruvilayadal starring Sivaji Ganesan and directed by A P Nagarajan on this day in 1965.
A P Nagarajan, who made a mark with mythological stories, is still remembered for the movie in which he even played the famour Nakkerar.
This film drew its plot from a set of 64 stories penned by a sage Paranjothi Munivar. It had four interrsting episodes that speak of Lord Siva and his bonding with his devotees. Sivaji on titular role and Savithri as Goddess stole the show. It had a silver jubilee run when it was out in 1965.
Be it the poet Dharumi episode which is still remembered for Nagesh and Sivaji Ganesan performance, Dhatchsan maha yagam and songer-poet Banapathirar story where Balish walks away with applause, Thiruvilayadal is close to heart of every movie-lover.
And the songs from the movie are still played not just in temples but every household. KV Mahadevan’s works Oru Naal Pothuma, Paatum Naanae, Isai Thamizh, Paartha Pasumaram, Pazham Neeyappa ooze with divinity.