Mamangam, an epic movie in four languages, Malayalam and Tamil, Telugu and Hindi, hits the screen with a celebratory mood.
M. Padmakumar directed the historic film depicting a heroic but tragic battle. For centuries, Mamangam was an international festival on the banks of Barathapuzha in Thirunnavaya, attended by people from many lands, held every 12 years. It was presided over by the ruler of Valluvanad, the Valluvakonathiri.
But the Zamorin of Kozhikode defeated him and took over the leadership of Mamangam. A few soldiers with allegiance to the Valluvakonathiri would attack the Zamorin’s army during the festival to kill the Zamorin. Outnumbered by the army, they died on the battlefield, heroically. They were called ‘chaver’s who were ready to lay down their life fighting rather than surrendering. The eyes of the chavers were pulled out and their bodies were dropped into a well named Manikkinar with the help of elephants.
This practice continued for centuries till 1755. The film shows an incident from the Mamangam of 1695.
Megastar Mamootty stole the show with his impeccable performance throughout the film. The entire crew deserves kudos for the most decorative recreation of history in Malayalam cinema.
The film begins with the festival with sight and sound befitting of a mega event, which was a unique experience for the audience.
During this Mamangam, the Chavers led by Chandroth Valiya Panikkar (Mammooty) arrive to confront the Zamorin. They fought the Zamorin's army valiantly and everyone except Valiya Panikkar dropped dead. But Valiya Panikkar reached the Nilapaduthara where the Zamorin sits. Zamorin moved to a safe place earlier and Valiya Panikker escapes the scene with an extraordinary feat.
The story then moves to 24 years later when two of the latest warriors in Chandroth Tharavaadu were preparing to leave for Mamangam festival as chaver, after they had a vision from Thirumanthankunnu Devi to do so. They were Chandroth Panikkar (Unni Mukundan) and a young boy of 12 years named Chanthunni (Achuthan).
Hindi-Punjabi actress Prachi Tehlan was the heroine.
The visualization of the festival is magnificent. The action choreography too was amazing.
It's not only a commercial mass entertainer, but it tries to portray the historic facts too. The technical side of the movie was impressive according to the Malayalam film industry.
Action scenes were exceptional, especially that of Achuthan. Since it's more of an emotional drama, you're gonna to love this movie.
Big salute to the director for not compromising on history. Venu Kunnappilly is the produce and Shankar Ramakrishnan is the writer of the screenplay.
See excepts of an interview with Prachi Tehlan
?How was the shooting? hectic, relaxed?
The shooting was physically hectic but mentally relaxed. Director Padmakumar (lovingly called as Pappettan) is the most calm directors I have worked with. There was no pressure and stress from the direction side. They were very supportive and encouraging.
It took us almost 2 years to complete the film. Its an epic film.. the biggest if compared to the past projects of Malayalam industry. And the first Malayalam film to be releasing in 4 languages at the same time. I am blessed to make my debut with Mammooka in it.
? How was the language barrier? How did you overcome it?
Yes I did. I am a quick learner and I learnt my dialogues well. I used to sit with assistant directors and understand the meaning and used to practice the diction till the time I got it right. I am very particular about my work. I worked hard in learning and delivering the dialogues and very soon I understood the basic gist of the language. Must say Malayalam is the toughest Indian language.
? We saw a report that you got hurt during the shooting. What happened?
Yes and I have a scar which I have now named as Maamangam scar. While doing the fight sequence I hurt myself. Multiple times trying to do somersault in the air tied up with harness made me exhausted and I ended up hurting myself. Everyone told me that it is considered sacred if you bleed during your first shoot. I thought .. that they were saying it to make me feel better. I’ll know the truth on 12th Dec. (The prophesy became true and the film is a successful one in Malayalam)
? Would you act in Malayalam movies in future? Any offers already?
Obviously. Malayalam industry is the most content oriented industry in down south and I am proud to make my debut with it.. that too in the most expensive Malayalam film. I have few things in pipe line. Let's see what destiny has for me in future.
? How this film changed your career and perspective
I wish it changes my career for good taking me to new heights with better opportunities. Talking about perspective.. Mamangam has definitely made me more passionate for my profession and will be setting new benchmark for myself.
