This is (sadly) only the third Sanskrit language film made in Bharat / India ( the country of Sanskrit's origin).
The film is a classic and has won numerous awards - both at National Awards as well as in International Film Festivals.
The film is semi-biographical. It is on the life of renowned poet Unnayi Warrier who lived in the early 18th century. He is credited with creating multiple Kathakali compositions which expanded the repertoire of the art form and brought about its revival among the masses.
The film script is quite creative. It narrates the life story of Unnayi Warrier in parallel with his personal struggles when creating his magnum-opus "Nalacharitam". This play is based on the Nala-Dhamayanthi short story from the Mahabharata. Till date - even after centuries - this play continues to be the most popular drama in Kathakali.
The film shows how Unnayi Warrier's pain from his past relationship finds expression in the pangs suffered by Nalan and Dhamayanthi - further enriching the play, or rather immortalizing it.
The film is interspersed with excellent Kathakali performances each running not more than a couple of minutes, and very aptly woven into the storyline.
The performance of Rajesh Hebbar as the protagonist really stands out! The support performances by the three key actresses also are excellent.
The cinematography, direction, editing are excellent.
A must watch for art film lovers and Kathakali performance lovers alike!!
