Onscreen tribute to a Southern warrior

Here comes another thrilling period drama, this time a leaf from the history of Venad. The movie titled ‘Veerakal Daivangal’ chronicles the life of Eravikutti Pillai, the commander-in-chief of Veera Ravi Varma Kulashekhara Perumal who ruled Venad in the early decades of the 16th century. Along with the main threat the film also portrays the patriotism and self-sacrifice of Kali Nair, the brave warrior who was dearer to Eravikutti Pillai.

Directed by Mahesh Kidangil under the banner of Dharmik Media and Advertising Private Limited, the movie is scripted by B T Anil Kumar and the executive producer is Krishnan Sethukumar. The cast includes major stars from Mollywood, Kollywood and Hollywood. Technical and graphic experts from Hollywood also will be part of the film.

Though numerous films based on the folksongs of North Kerala have been made in Malayalam, very few films have been based on those of the south. A large part of the unsung history of Venad lies scattered in the traditional songs of South Kerala and ‘Villpaatukal’ that have been written in early Malayalam.

Eravikuti Pillai was a brave heart who made Venad proud by winning the war against the powerful Thirumala Naykar of Madurai. He was ably supported by Kali Nair. In the end with the help of some traitors from Venad itself, the head of the Madurai army, Ramapayyan, killed Eravikutti Pillai and presented his severed head before Thirumala Naykar. A large number of forgotten heroes like Aadali Poonkanni, Parith Avuliya, Kannamma Parayankali, Kathiron Chekkan and Bhairavan, who were trained by Eravikutti Pillai to fight for Venad have been given their due in ‘Veerakal Daivangal’.

The film will go on floors in September and the major locations will be Madurai, Tirunelveli, Kanyakumari and Thakala.