40 Years of 'Amman Kovil Kizhakale'
Amman Kovil Kizhakale was released 40 years ago on 24 April 1986. Written and directed by R Sundarrajan, starring Vijayakanth and Radha, it was a commercial success, with Vijayakanth also winning the Filmfare Award for Best Actor. The soundtrack by maestro Ilaiyaraja, set to lyrics by Gangai Amaran, endures to this day. Chinna Mani Kuyile is a lovely example of how Keeravani raga flows freely at the hands of this composer. In this song, the Kaisiki Nishada and Chatusruti Dhaivata peep out in a tricky phrase in the charanam — a composer's licence. Ilayaraja mesmerises once again with the song Kalai nera poonguil in Abhogi ragam. This piece starts in the lower Dhaivata and slowly winds its way up the scale, an exploratory and interesting approach. Poova eduthu oru maalai is another memorable melody in Mayamalavagowlai from Ilayaraja's sound factory. Ilayaraja's creations in this raga define its place in film music. Un Paarvayil ...