Karnan

Karnan (1964) : Brief Review -

Tamil cinema's magnum opus featuring the legendary tale of the greatest warrior Karna has a TV-serial touch, but the epic climax explaining how six people killed Karna makes up for it. Sivaji Ganesan plays the titular character and lives up to the aura, but what the hell was the execution? The film has a dramatic score, a melodramatic tone, serial-like visuals, and soapy expressionism that puts it way behind the other magnum opuses made by Telugu and Hindi cinema before the 1960s. While I was waiting for the film to get over after tolerating it for almost 3 hours, the final 5 minutes of the climax really made me sigh in relief. The way NTR, aka Lord Krishna, explains that it wasn't Arjun who killed Karna, but rather there had been six people behind his death-Arjun just made it formal, while Karna was actually brought down by many already-is brilliant. The moment when the dying Karna donates his blood to Lord Krishna and Krishna realises how great a donor Karna was truly makes his character stand out as the greatest in Mahabharata. Karna's story is such, you know-he deserved that king-size life but never got it. Born to Kunti, he was abandoned right after birth. He didn't have the name of parents to carry, so he never got that Kshatriya stature despite being the greatest warrior. He didn't even get a chance to show his actual skills to the Pandavas, who thought they were bigger than him-because of his vows. Truly, a story to be cherished forever. But what a low-quality presentation B. R. Panthulu gave to the film. It might have been top class for Tamil cinema back in a time when they were only making formulaic films, but compared to Hindi and Telugu grand epics, this wasn't even half as good. NTR saved the day, and Sivaji sir was somewhat good-the eyes did the job, while the expressions spoiled it. Overall, a film that doesn't have anything to remember except for its story-thanks to Mahabharata-and the climax-again, thanks to Mahabharata.

RATING - 5/10*

By - #samthebestest.

The movie is in color. The movie is about an important character in the great Indian Epic Mahabaratha. Kannadasan's Songs adds the mood. Great Lyrics. Sivaji Ganesan and Other supporting actors had done a good job. Viswanathan & Ramamurthy have scored good with Music. Central theme is around Pandavas are denied their share of kingdom by their cousin's Kaurvas. Kunti the mother of Pandavas had begotten a son before her marriage and had abandoned the son on birth. This son grows up to be Karna, who is befriended by Duryodhana, the eldest of Kauravas. This leads Karna on the camp opposing his brothers. Karna is known for his charity, which knows no bounds, willing to give even his life, if asked. Complex characterisation, well adopted on the screen.

One of the Greatest of All time.

The Mahabharatam, one of the greatest epics of ancient India, is a profound and multi-layered work that offers philosophical, ethical, and existential insights alongside a gripping narrative of politics, warfare, and family drama. Written by the sage Vyasa, it spans over 100,000 verses, making it the longest epic poem in world literature.

Story Overview

The central theme revolves around the rivalry between two sets of cousins, the Pandavas and the Kauravas, who vie for control of the throne of Hastinapura. This conflict culminates in the great war of Kurukshetra, which serves as the backdrop for a series of moral dilemmas and philosophical discourses. The Bhagavad Gita, delivered by Lord Krishna to Arjuna on the battlefield, is one of the most important texts in Hindu philosophy and forms a crucial part of the Mahabharata.

Themes and Philosophical Depth

1. Dharma (Righteousness and Duty): The Mahabharata explores the concept of dharma from multiple angles. Characters are often placed in situations where they must choose between conflicting duties, and the consequences of their choices drive the narrative forward. Yudhishthira, the eldest Pandava, exemplifies this struggle, especially when he chooses truth and righteousness, even at personal cost.

Karnan in the Mahabharata is one of the most complex and tragic characters, evoking deep sympathy despite his role on the losing side. Here's a brief review of his character:

Karna, born to Kunti and the Sun god, is abandoned at birth and raised by a charioteer's family. Though of noble birth, his life is marked by constant struggle, social rejection, and a desire for acceptance. His loyalty to Duryodhana, who embraces him when others scorn him, becomes both his greatest strength and downfall.

Karna's virtues, like his generosity, fearlessness, and adherence to dharma, are often contrasted with his flaws, such as his deep-seated resentment and his adherence to a flawed sense of loyalty to Duryodhana, even when it means supporting adharma (injustice). His tragic end, betrayed by destiny, Krishna's interventions, and his own stubborn loyalty, highlights the complexities of fate and human choice in the Mahabharata.

This movie stands as one of the most revered epics in Tamil cinema, a true masterpiece that blends mythology, drama & grandeur in a way few films ever have. Directed and produced by the visionary B. R. Panthulu, this cinematic marvel brings to life the powerful tale of Karna, one of the most complex & tragic characters of the Mahabharata, with sheer brilliance & emotional depth.

At the heart of this masterpiece is Sivaji Ganesan, whose portrayal of Karnan remains unparalleled. Sivaji Ganesan, known for his remarkable ability to portray a wide range of emotions, delivers a soul-stirring performance that captures the nobility, valor & inner turmoil of Karna. His voice modulation, expressions & majestic screen presence elevate the character, leaving an indelible mark on the audience.

N. T. Rama Rao as Krishna is charismatic and regal, perfectly embodying the divine yet strategic charioteer of the Pandavas. His calm demeanor and subtle expressions make Krishna a memorable character in the film. Asokan, as the envious & ambitious Duryodhana, brings out the arrogance and cunning of the Kaurava prince with conviction. S. A. Ashokan delivers a strong performance, adding intensity to every scene he appears in.

The graceful Devika, as Bhanumathi, Duryodhana's wife, adds elegance to the narrative, while R. M. Sethupathi as Arjuna portrays the Pandava prince with great energy and zeal. M. V. Rajamma, in the role of Kunti, effectively conveys the pathos of a mother torn by fate. Other supporting actors, including K. V. Srinivasan and J. P. Chandrababu, also contribute significantly to the film's grandeur.

A film of this magnitude is incomplete without a powerful musical score & Viswanathan-Ramamoorthy deliver just that. Their compositions, combined with the profound lyrics of Kannadasan, give the film its soul. Songs like "Ullathil Nalla Ullam" and "Iravum Nilavum" are timeless classics that continue to resonate with audiences even today.

The screenplay, written with precision and depth, does justice to the epic nature of the story. The dialogues are laden with philosophical undertones and emotional weight, making every scene impactful. The grandeur of the sets, costumes & cinematography (handled by V. Ramamoorthy) immerses the viewer in the world of ancient India.

B. R. Panthulu's direction is commendable for his ability to handle such a colossal story with finesse. He not only manages to stay true to the essence of the Mahabharata but also brings in a human touch to every character, making them relatable and unforgettable. Producing a film of this scale during the 1960s, with limited resources compared to today, is a testament to his vision and dedication.

This brings us to a pertinent question: Can today's film industry dare to produce such grand mythological epics? While technological advancements have made filmmaking easier in many ways, it takes more than technology to create a timeless classic. It takes vision, commitment & a profound understanding of the subject matter. The mythological genre, though largely overlooked in recent times, has immense potential. Who will step up and revive it with the same passion and precision as B. R. Panthulu?

This movie "Karnan" is not just a film; it is an experience, an emotional, intellectual, and visual spectacle that leaves the audience in awe. Even after six decades, it remains a benchmark for Indian cinema. If the film industry today seeks inspiration for creating enduring cinema, it need not look any further than this legendary masterpiece.

Movie "Karnan" proves that some stories are meant to be retold for generations, and with a filmmaker's courage and an artist's devotion, they can transcend time. It is high time we see more such mythological epics gracing our screens once again!

One of the all time great Tamil Classics with a fantastic star cast, great acting and superb songs.

The movie is about one of the most controversial and much debated character Karnan, of the Great Indian Epic, the Mahabaratha.

Thespian actor Sivaji Ganesan as Karnan sparkles in this role. Sivaji perfectly portrays the despair of Karnan who does not know the secret of his birth, revels in the friendship of Duryodhana, and stands firmly alongside his friend even when he knows Duryodhana is wrong. A classical story of loyalty towards his friend and duty even after he knows who his family is.

N.T. Rama Rao's trademark role as Lord Krishna. Its a role he has made his own in so many mythological movies. He carries out the role with great aplomb and panache. I felt that he hijacked the later part of the movie.