The Background:
After the critically acclaimed Soorarai Pottru (2020), director Sudha Kongara teams up with Sivakarthikeyan for Parasakthi, a film based on the anti-Hindi imposition movement in Tamil Nadu during the 1960s. Initially announced with Suriya and Dulquer Salmaan in 2023, the project shifted to Sivakarthikeyan and Ravi Mohan in 2024. The film, which was a theatrical failure, is now streaming on ZEE5.
The Story:
The film revolves around two brothers, Chezhiyan and Chinnadurai, set against the backdrop of the anti-Hindi protests. Chezhiyan, once a student leader, abandons activism to work in the Railways, while Thirunaadan, a half-Tamil intelligence officer, is determined to crush the movement. The narrative explores their struggles, sacrifices, and the larger fight for linguistic identity.
The Good:
The opening train sequence sets the stage well, introducing both protagonist and antagonist with promise. The interval scene, where Chezhiyan steps into the protest, is impactful despite being predictable. Certain episodes, like Chezhiyan raising issues with the Central government and the pre-climax cameos, add weight. The film’s visual quality and some dialogues capture the spirit of the movement effectively.
The Bad:
Despite Parasakthi having the emotional potential, Sudha Kongara fails to fully bring it alive. Scenes that should have been powerful, like elderly women unable to send money orders due to Hindi imposition, or the scenes where the protagonist loses loved ones, at the beginning and in the initial phase of the second half, fall flat. Emotional beats arrive but lack depth, leaving audiences unmoved.
The Worse:
The bond between Chezhiyan and Chinnadurai is barely explored, reduced to a couple of hugs. The love track with Rathnamala feels forced, disrupting the serious tone with an unnecessary duet song. Cameos meant to highlight unity in diversity appear commercial and out of place, with Rana Daggubati’s role ending awkwardly. The climax drags painfully, with deaths that lack emotional weight or dramatic tension.
The Takeaway:
The attempt to revive the spirit of Tamil Nadu’s anti-Hindi struggle is commendable. Strong performances, striking visuals, and a few effective dialogues stand out.
Bottom Line:
Parasakthi is honest in intent but loses its impact in translation.
Rating: 2/5
