J. Mahendran – The Visionary Director of Tamil Cinema
Personal Details
- Full Name: J. Alexander Mahendran
- Date of Birth: July 25, 1939
- Place of Birth: Ilaiyangudi, Sivaganga District, Tamil Nadu, India
- Date of Death: April 2, 2019
- Nationality: Indian
- Profession: Film Director, Screenwriter, Actor
- Notable Titles: “The Father of Realistic Tamil Cinema”
Early Life & Education
J. Mahendran was born in a Tamil Christian family in Ilaiyangudi, Tamil Nadu. He was an avid reader and passionate about literature, which led him to study at the University of Madras. His strong storytelling skills and love for cinema inspired him to enter the film industry.
Mahendran’s journey in cinema started as a film critic and screenwriter, where he made a significant impact before turning into a director.
Career in Cinema
Screenwriting Career (1966–1977)
Mahendran started as a screenwriter, working with legendary directors like K. Balachander and C. V. Sridhar. Some of his early screenplays include:
- Naam Moovar (1966)
- Ponnukku Thanga Manasu (1973) (starring Sivakumar & Jayachitra)
- Thangappathakkam (1974) (starring Sivaji Ganesan, a police drama that became a cult classic)
- Aboorva Raagangal (1975) (K. Balachander’s film that introduced Rajinikanth, Mahendran wrote dialogues)
Directorial Career (1978–1989)
Mullum Malarum (1978) – Tamil
- Starring: Rajinikanth, Sarath Babu, Shoba
- Music: Ilaiyaraaja
- Plot: A poetic drama about a rebellious village worker and his love for his sister.
- Impact: A cult classic that redefined Rajinikanth as an actor.
2️⃣ Uthiripookkal (1979) – Tamil
- Starring: Vijayan, Ashwini, Madhumalini
- Music: Ilaiyaraaja
- Plot: A dark, tragic tale of a ruthless man who abuses his family.
- Impact: Considered one of the greatest Tamil films ever made.
3️⃣ Johnny (1980) – Tamil
- Starring: Rajinikanth (dual role), Sridevi, Deepa
- Music: Ilaiyaraaja
- Plot: A stylish thriller about the contrast between a conman and an honest barber.
- Impact: Showcased Rajinikanth’s acting versatility.
4️⃣ Nenjathai Killathe (1980) – Tamil
- Starring: Suhasini, Mohan, Sarath Babu
- Music: Ilaiyaraaja
- Plot: A complex love story between a woman caught between her past and present.
- Awards: Won National Film Award for Best Tamil Film.
5️⃣ Metti (1982) – Tamil
- Starring: Sarath Babu, Madhavi, Vadivukkarasi
- Music: Ilaiyaraaja
- Plot: A social drama about a woman’s struggles in a patriarchal society.
6️⃣ Kai Kodukkum Kai (1984) – Tamil
- Starring: Rajinikanth, Revathi
- Music: Ilaiyaraaja
- Plot: An emotional drama about a man accused of a crime and his redemption.
7️⃣ Kannukku Mai Ezhuthu (1986) – Tamil
- Starring: Sivakumar, Radhika
- Music: Ilaiyaraaja
- Plot: A thought-provoking drama focusing on social justice.
8️⃣ Nandu (1981) – Tamil
- Starring: Suresh, Ashwini
- Music: Ilaiyaraaja
- Plot: A coming-of-age story about a young man’s life struggles.
9️⃣ Azhagiya Kanne (1982) – Tamil
- Starring: Sarath Babu, Sumathi
- Music: Ilaiyaraaja
- Plot: A romantic drama exploring emotional conflicts.
🔟 Sasanam (2006) – Tamil
- Starring: Arvind Swami, Gouthami, Ranjitha
- Plot: A comeback film focusing on relationships and responsibilities.
Other Works & Contributions
- He wrote screenplays for several films, including Thangappathakkam (1974) and Aboorva Raagangal (1975).
- He acted in Theri (2016), Nimir (2018), and Boomerang (2019).
- He was a mentor to many modern filmmakers, influencing Mani Ratnam, Bala, Vetrimaaran, and others.
Personal Life & Death
Mahendran lived a simple, artistic life, away from commercial cinema. He passed away on April 2, 2019, due to illness, but his legacy remains immortal.
SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS :
YOUTUBE : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m0N1Mu6Q9hQ&pp=ygUdTWFoZW5kcmFuIGxpZmUgc3RvcnkgaW4gdGFtaWw%3D
