Mudhalvan: Difference between revisions

What links here Related changes Page information Get shortened URL
Created by Flying Bee
Last edited March 16, 2026
← Older edit
VisualWikitext
CleanupBot (talk | contribs)
Bots
17,809 edits
m clean up
Article updated with improved flow
 
(One intermediate revision by one other user not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Use dmy dates|date=February 2018}}
{{Use Indian English|date=July 2023}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2023}}
{{Infobox film
{{Infobox film
| name          = Mudhalvan
| image          = Mudhalvan.jpg
| image          = Mudhalvan.jpg
| caption        = Film poster
| caption        = Poster
| director      = [[S. Shankar]]
| director      = [[S. Shankar|Shankar]]
| writer        = [[Sujatha Rangarajan]]
| screenplay    = Shankar
| screenplay    = S. Shankar
| story          = Shankar
| story          = S. Shankar
{{Infobox
| starring      = [[Arjun Sarja|Arjun]]<br />[[Raghuvaran]]<br />[[Manisha Koirala]]<br />[[Manivannan]]<br />[[Vadivelu]]
| decat = yes
| producer      = S. Shankar <br> [[R. Madhesh]]
| child = yes
| music          = [[A. R. Rahman]]
| label1= Dialogues by
| data1 = {{ubl | [[Sujatha (writer)|Sujatha]]}}
}}
| producer      = S. Shankar<br />[[R. Madhesh]]
| starring      = [[Arjun Sarja|Arjun]]<br />[[Manisha Koirala]]<br />[[Raghuvaran]]
| cinematography = [[K. V. Anand]]
| cinematography = [[K. V. Anand]]
| editing        = [[B. Lenin]]<br />[[V. T. Vijayan]]
| editing        = [[B. Lenin]]<br />[[V. T. Vijayan]]
| studio        = S Films
| music          = [[A. R. Rahman]]
| studio        = [[S Pictures|S Films]]
| distributor    = S Films
| distributor    = S Films
| released      = 7 November 1999
| released      = {{film date|1999|11|7|df=y}}
| runtime        = 171 minutes
| runtime        = 171 minutes
| country        = India
| country        = India
| language      = Tamil
| language      = Tamil
| budget        = {{INR|link=yes}}200 million<ref name="gross">{{cite web|url=http://www.dsrmedias.com/profile/movie/tamil/mudhalvan |title=Mudhalvan |access-date=5 September 2018 |publisher=dsrmedias }}</ref>
| gross          = {{INR|link=yes}}560 million<ref name="gross"/>
}}
}}
'''''Mudhalvan''''' ({{Translation|'Chief Minister, leader'}}) is a 1999 Indian [[Tamil language|Tamil]]-language [[Political cinema|political]] [[action thriller film]]  produced by [[R. Madhesh]] and [[S. Shankar]] written, and directed by [[S. Shankar]]. The film features [[Arjun Sarja|Arjun]] and [[Manisha Koirala]] playing the lead with [[Raghuvaran]] playing the antagonist while [[Vadivelu]] and [[Manivannan]] feature in supporting roles. The film featured an award-winning soundtrack composed by [[A. R. Rahman]], cinematography by [[K. V. Anand]] and dialogues by [[Sujatha Rangarajan|Sujatha]].<ref name="Rediff">{{cite web|date=4 November 1999 |url=http://www.rediff.com/entertai/1999/nov/04spice.htm |title=Love makes the filmi world go round |publisher=Rediff |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121025192859/http://www.rediff.com/entertai/1999/nov/04spice.htm |archive-date=25 October 2012 }}</ref>


The film revolves around an ambitious TV journalist, Pughazhendi, who gets his first interview with the [[Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu]]. Pughazh asks harder questions, and the Chief Minister starts trembling and asks him to put his money where his mike is and become his replacement CM for a day. After initially rejecting the offer, Pugazh agrees and does such a great job on his first day, that the actual cabinet collapses and fresh elections are held, where state voters eventually elect him to be their new official Chief Minister. The subsequent unpopularity and jealousy that the old Chief Minister goes through results in him taking revenge on Pugazh, and how he is stopped forms the crux of the story.
'''''Mudhalvan''''' ({{Translation|Chief Minister}}) is a 1999 Indian [[Tamil language|Tamil]]-language [[political fiction|political]] [[action film]] co-produced, co-written and directed by [[S. Shankar|Shankar]]. The film stars [[Arjun Sarja|Arjun]], [[Manisha Koirala]], and [[Raghuvaran]] in lead roles, while [[Vadivelu]] and [[Manivannan]] appear in supporting roles. The film featured an award-winning soundtrack composed by [[A. R. Rahman]], cinematography by [[K. V. Anand]], and dialogue by [[Sujatha (writer)|Sujatha]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=4 November 1999 |title=Love makes the filmi world go round |url=http://www.rediff.com/entertai/1999/nov/04spice.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121025192859/http://www.rediff.com/entertai/1999/nov/04spice.htm |archive-date=25 October 2012 |access-date=15 March 2011 |website=[[Rediff.com]]}}</ref> Many members of the DMK government of Tamil Nadu (which was the ruling party at that time) believed that the antagonist was modelled on [[M. Karunanidhi]], the CM & Supreme Leader of the DMK. Subsequently, the film received release issues and oppressive pressure from the DMK.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=4 November 1999 |title=The war within |url=https://m.rediff.com/movies/1999/dec/15mudal.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210725072411/https://m.rediff.com/movies/1999/dec/15mudal.htm |archive-date=25 July 2021 |access-date=22 Oct 2025 |website=[[Rediff.com]]}}</ref> 
 
The film revolves around an ambitious TV journalist, Pugazhendi, who gets his first interview with the [[Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu]]. Pugazh asks controversial questions regarding the Chief Minister's inactions, to which the CM challenges him to face his unresolved issues by becoming his replacement CM for a day. After initially rejecting the offer, Pugazh agrees and manages to implement immense and effective changes to the government, to the point where state voters eventually elect him as their new Chief Minister. The subsequent unpopularity and jealousy that the old Chief Minister goes through results in him taking revenge on Pugazh, and how he is stopped forms the crux of the story.
 
The film was released on 7 November 1999, as a [[Diwali]] release. Within days of the release of the film, Madurai had a high number of pirated videos and cable operators requested with airing the film multiple times on their channels.<ref name=":0" /> Despite opposition from the DMK government & its associated party, the film received critical acclaim and was a major commercial success, becoming the [[List of highest-grossing Tamil films|second highest-grossing Tamil film]] of 1999. The film ran for over 100 days in theatres and won awards on a regional scale. The film was later remade in [[Hindi]] as ''[[Nayak: The Real Hero]]'' (2001) by the same director.


The film was released on 7 November 1999, as a [[Deepavali]] release. The film enjoyed positive critical acclaim and emerged as one of the top grossing Tamil films of 1999. The film ran for over 100 days in theaters and won awards on a regional scale. The film was then dubbed and released in [[Telugu language|Telugu]] as ''Oke Okkadu'' which was also  successful and later remade in [[Bollywood|Hindi]] as ''[[Nayak (2001 Hindi film)|Nayak]]'' (2001) starring [[Anil Kapoor]], [[Rani Mukherji]]. This movie was unofficial remade in [[Dhallywood]] ([[Cinema of Bangladesh]]) as ''[[Minister (2003 film)|Minister]]'' (2003) directed by [[Kazi Hayat]] starring [[Manna (actor)|Manna]], [[Moushumi]] and the film also loosely remade in [[Tollywood (Bengali cinema)|Tollywood]] ([[Cinema of West Bengal]]) as ''[[MLA Fatakeshto]]'' (2006) directed by [[Swapan Saha]] starring [[Mithun Chakraborty]].
== Plot ==
N. Pugazhendi "Pugazh" is a news reporter in [[Chennai]]. One day, a riot occurs between students and bus drivers in the city. The [[Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu|Chief Minister]] of the state, Aranganathar, tells the police not to arrest the protesters as they belong to his community and political party, in a conversation recorded on video by Pugazh.  


==Plot==
Pugazh also meets Thenmozhi and falls for her honesty and bravery, but her father does not accept his marriage proposal as he disapproves of his daughter marrying someone who is not a government employee.
N. Pugazhendi aka Pugazh ([[Arjun Sarja]]) is a news reporter working for QTV in Chennai. One day, a riot occurs between the students and the bus drivers in the city following a communal clash which disrupts normal life. The Chief Minister (CM) of the state, Aranganathar ([[Raghuvaran]]), informs the police over wireless not to arrest the protesters as they belong to his community and political party. The conversation is recorded by Pugazh in his video camera. Pugazh meets a village girl named Thenmozhi ([[Manisha Koirala]]) and falls in love with her. However, her father ([[Vijayakumar (Tamil actor)|Vijayakumar]]) does not accept the marriage proposal as he wants to get Thenmozhi married only to a government employee.


One day, QTV arranges for a live interview with Aranganathar and the anchor in charge does not turn up at the last moment. Pugazh is thrilled and excited as he gets the opportunity to interview the CM. During the course of the interview, Pugazh unmasks many events done by Aranganathar and his party against the welfare of the state, for political reasons with necessary evidences, and he also blames Aranganathar for not taking action while at the riot by evidencing his recorded video taken at the time of the riot. Aranganathar justifies his indifferent stands and challenges Pugazh to accept his post for a day so that he will realize the pressures faced on a daily basis. Pugazh, after a brief trepidation, accepts the challenge provided the constitution permits. Lawmakers confirm that such a provision is possible, and Pugazh is sworn in as the CM for 24 hours.
Some days later, Pugazh interviews Aranganathar on television and confronts him for various actions by his party as well as his choice of inaction at the riot. Aranganathar claims that Pugazh does not understand the pressures a Chief Minister faces and challenges him to act in the post for a day, which Pugazh accepts.


To everyone's surprise, Pugazh does not prefer speaking to the waiting media crew, but he gets into action immediately by collecting a list of irresponsible civil servants and issuing suspension letters immediately. He helps poor people rightfully reclaim houses allotted by the government and requests every Indian citizen to pay all required taxes even if it is for a day, highlighting the effects of avoiding the same. Mayakrishnan ([[Manivannan]]), an honest official, is the government secretary and helps Pugazh through his one-day mission. Finally, Pugazh digs a case of corruption against the ruling party leading to the arrest of Aranganathar.
In his allotted 24 hours, Pugazh takes action to reduce corruption and increase welfare in Tamil Nadu, assisted by an honest government secretary called Mayakrishnan. Pugazh's final action of the day is to bring corruption charges against the ruling party; Aranganathar is arrested but is bailed out by the attorney general. Upon his release, Aranganathar sends goons to kill Pugazh, but he escapes with minor injuries.


The next day, Aranganathar retains as the CM and cancels all orders issued from the previous day. Taking Pugazh's success as his defeat and a demean to his long-standing political career, he plans to take revenge and sends goons to kill Pugazh, who escapes with heavy injuries. Aranganathar's image is tarnished before the public, and the coalition parties withdraw their support, resulting in dissolving the government and leading to another election.
Pugazh visits Pooncholai and is applauded by the villagers before spending his day with Thenmozhi in peace. Meanwhile, Aranganathar's public image is tarnished, and the coalition parties refuse to support his reinstatement, resulting in the dissolution of the legislature, and precipitating a general election. There is enormous public support for Pugazh to become Chief Minister, but he initially refuses due to his desire to lead a normal life. Mayakrishnan eventually convinces Pugazh sacrifice his comfort and run for election, and he wins a huge majority and all legislature seats.


A huge crowd gathers in front of Pugazh's house, requesting him to contest in the upcoming election. Other political parties also come forward to offer their support for their own reasons. However, Pugazh is not for it as he wants to have a safe and secure life. Thenmozhi's father advises him not to go in politics, while accepting him to marry Thenmozhi. Mayakrishnan makes him understand how much the people have gathered themselves and shows the plight of people and advises him to sacrifice his comfort zone for the sake of achieving heights in the politics and doing good for the people. Finally, Pugazh accepts to it and contests in the ensuing election and wins by the vast majority of voters ever in the political history of Tamil Nadu. After assuming the office, Pugazh is keen in the state development and gets busy in his schedule of doing welfare to the people, while Aranganathar and other politicians unite as they are worried by the change of events.
Pugazh gets to work developing the state and improving welfare standards while Aranganathar and other politicians' anger increases, culminating in them hiring a hitman to kill Pugazh. Pugazh sneaks away to visit Thenmozhi and is almost caught by the hitman. Thenmozhi's father tells Pugazh that he must choose between the Chief Minister job and a relationship with his daughter. Pugazh's parents agree to speak to Thenmozhi's father to attempt to convince him otherwise.


They hire a hitman to get Pugazh killed, but he escapes with the help of the Z Cadre security guard officials, who shoot the hitman to death. Pugazh, on knowing that Aranganathar is behind this, gets enraged and challenges the latter that the law will not spare him. Aranganathar plans to create a havoc in the rule of Pugazh, and hence, he has his men plant bombs across Chennai. Pugazh and Mayakrishnan get to know of this by a tactful inquiry of Chinnasamy ([[Cochin Haneefa]]), who is Aranganathar's right-hand henchman. The bomb squad diffuses all the bombs except one.
Mayakrishnan phones Pugazh to inform him that a bomb has been planted in his home just as the bomb explodes, killing Pugazh's parents. Pugazh travels to confront Aranganathar and learns of the latter's plan to plant bombs across Chennai. Pugazh and Mayakrishnan send for a bomb squad, who manage to reach and defuse all except one of the bombs.
A bomb planted in Pugazh's house to kill Pugazh, instead claims the lives of his parents.
Aranganathar blames Pugazh to be the man behind the entire episode and claims it as a ploy to win public support.
Pugazh realizes that he will be prevented from performing his duties and invites Aranganathar to his office. As their conversation progresses, Pugazh pulls out a gun and shoots himself without causing any major injuries. He throws the gun to Aranganathar who catches it out of his reflexes. At the same time, the security guards officials rush in upon hearing gunfire and see Aranganathar pointing the gun at Pugazh. The security guards officials then shoot and kill Aranganathar to save Pugazh.


Pugazh feels glad that he can continue his mission without being interrupted, but he also feels guilty for having staged a false incident to kill Aranganathar. He confesses to Mayakrishnan that even he has been forced to play the game of politics. Mayakrishnan supports him by consoling that he played the politics only for a good cause and that Aranganathar deserves this. Thenmozhi's father realizes the greatness of Pugazhendhi and consents to the marriage.
Aranganathar blames Pugazh for the incident, claiming it to be a ploy to win public support. Pugazh invites Aranganathar to his office. While they talk, Pugazh pulls a gun and shoots himself, but does not sustain any major injuries. He then throws the gun to Aranganathar. Security guards hear the gunfire and enter to see Aranganathar pointing the gun at Pugazh. The security guards shoot and kill Aranganathar, who recalls the initial television interview in his dying moments.


The movie ends showing Tamil Nadu as a developed state under the rule of Pugazh with world class infrastructures and free of violence.
Pugazh is conflicted, glad to continue his mission of improving the state but guilty for his part in Aranganathar's death and feeling forced to play the game of politics. He is comforted by Mayakrishnan, who insists he only played the game for a deserving cause and that Aranganathar deserved his fate. Thenmozhi's father finally appreciates Pugazh's successes and agrees to the marriage. Pugazh's work leads to the people of Tamil Nadu enjoying a high level of development and freedom from violence and corruption.


==Cast==
== Cast ==
{{colbegin}}
{{cast listing|
* [[Arjun Sarja|Arjun]] as TV journalist/Chief Minister Pugazhenthi
* [[Arjun Sarja|Arjun]] as N. Pugazhenthi "Pugazh"
* [[Raghuvaran]] as Chief Minister Aranganathar
* [[Manisha Koirala]] as Thenmozhi
* [[Manisha Koirala]] as Thenmozhi ([[Voice over]] by Durga)
* [[Laila (actress)|Laila]] as Kalakkal Shuba (special appearance)
* [[Manivannan]] as Chief Secretary Maya Krishnan
* [[Raghuvaran]] as Aranganathar
* [[Vadivelu]] as Palavesham
* [[Vadivelu]] as Palavesham
* [[Laila (actress)|Laila]] as Kalakkal Shuba, Pugazhenthi's former boss and colleague news reporter
* [[Vijayakumar (Tamil actor)|Vijayakumar]] as Thenmozhi's father
* [[Cochin Haneefa|V. M. C. Haneefa]] as Chinnasamy, Aranganathar's right-hand henchman
* [[Sushmita Sen]] in item number "Shakalaka Baby" (special appearance)
* [[S. V. Ramadoss]] as Minister Thirupathisamy, coalition party leader
* Artist Natanam as R. Narayanan, Pugazhenthi's father
* Artist Natanam as R. Narayanan, Pugazhenthi's father
* [[Kalairani]] as Pugazhenthi's mother
* [[Kalairani]] as Pugazhenthi's mother
* [[Vijayakumar (Tamil actor)|Vijayakumar]] as Thenmozhi's father
* [[Cochin Haneefa]] as Chinnasamy, Aranganathar's right-hand henchman
* [[Fathima Babu]] as Maragadham, Aranganathar's wife
* [[Fathima Babu]] as Maragadham, Aranganathar's wife
* [[S. V. Ramadoss]] as Minister Thirupathisamy, coalition party leader
* [[Surya (Telugu actor)|Surya]] as Manohar, Chief of Security for Pugazhenthi
* [[Besant Ravi]] as slum rogue Alei
* [[Omakuchi Narasimhan]] as Palavesham's uncle
* [[Manivannan]] as [[Chief secretary (India)|Chief Secretary]] Maya Krishnan
* [[Scissor Manohar]] as a bus driver in the student riot
* [[Scissor Manohar]] as a bus driver in the student riot
* [[Surya (Telugu actor)|Surya]] as Manohar, Chief of Security for Pugazhenthi
* [[Besant Ravi|Ravi]] as slum rogue
* [[Sampath Ram]] as Sub-Inspector
* [[Sampath Ram]] as sub-inspector (uncredited)<ref name="K">{{Cite web|url=https://kalkionline.com/entertainment/cinema/a-famous-tamil-movie-villain-who-is-going-to-mix-in-hollywood|title=ஹாலிவுட்டில் கலக்க இருக்கும் பிரபல தமிழ்ப்பட வில்லன்!|first=|last=|date=10 February 2023|website=Kalki Online|access-date=4 May 2025|archive-date=27 January 2025|archive-url=https://archive.today/20250127080722/https://kalkionline.com/entertainment/cinema/a-famous-tamil-movie-villain-who-is-going-to-mix-in-hollywood|url-status=live}}</ref>
* Robo Chandru
<!--* [[Kanal Kannan]] as auto driver (cameo appearance)
* [[Kanal Kannan]] as auto driver (cameo appearance)
* [[Ahmed Khan (choreographer)|Ahmed Khan]] as a dancer in "Shakalaka Baby" song-->
* [[Omakuchi Narasimhan]] as Palavesham's uncle (cameo appearance)  
}}
* [[Ahmed Khan (choreographer)|Ahmed Khan]] as a dancer in Shakalaka Baby song
 
* [[Sushmita Sen]] in item number "[[Shakalaka Baby]]"
== Production ==
{{colend}}


==Production==
Following the success of ''[[Jeans (film)|Jeans]]'' (1998), [[S. Shankar]] chose to make a political action film, which would later become ''Mudhalvan''.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Rangarajan |first=Malathi |date=27 May 2012 |title=Maverick maker |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-cinemaplus/maverick-maker/article3460457.ece |url-status=live |access-date=11 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160115160136/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-cinemaplus/maverick-maker/article3460457.ece |archive-date=15 January 2016}}</ref>
Following the success of ''[[Jeans (film)|Jeans]]'' (1998), Shankar chose to make a political action film, which would later become ''Mudhalvan''.<ref name="malathi rangarajan">{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-cinemaplus/maverick-maker/article3460457.ece |title=Maverick maker |author=malathi rangarajan |work=The Hindu |access-date=11 September 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160115160136/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-cinemaplus/maverick-maker/article3460457.ece |archive-date=15 January 2016 }}</ref> The idea for the story was inspired by Indian actor [[Sivaji Ganesan]] being named the honorary mayor of [[Niagara Falls, New York]] for one day during his visit to the United States.<ref name="The Penguin-Landmark Quiz Book">[https://archive.org/details/ThePenguinLandmarkQuizBook-GautamPadmanabhan The Penguin-Landmark Quiz Book] pp. 60, 173</ref> The lead role was initially written with [[Rajinikanth]] in mind, but he was unwilling to star in the film.<ref name="The Times of India">{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/did-you-know-/Rajinikanth-was-to-do-Shankars-Mudhalvan/articleshow/22368963.cms |title=Rajinikanth was to do Shankar's 'Mudhalvan' |work=The Times of India |access-date=11 September 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150113044500/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/did-you-know-/Rajinikanth-was-to-do-Shankars-Mudhalvan/articleshow/22368963.cms |archive-date=13 January 2015 }}</ref> [[Vijay (actor)|Vijay]] was also considered by Shankar for the role, though the actor turned the offer down.<ref name="Sify">{{cite web|url=http://www.sify.com/movies/shankar-is-the-spielberg-of-indian-cinema-vijay-news-tamil-lmzmjUhiafh.html |title=Shankar is the Spielberg of Indian cinema: Vijay |publisher=Sify |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140305121203/http://www.sify.com/movies/shankar-is-the-spielberg-of-indian-cinema-vijay-news-tamil-lmzmjUhiafh.html |archive-date= 5 March 2014 }}</ref><ref name="Shankar connects with fans">{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-tamilnadu/shankar-connects-with-fans/article707916.ece |title=Shankar connects with fans |work=The Hindu |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131228153750/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-tamilnadu/shankar-connects-with-fans/article707916.ece |archive-date=28 December 2013 }}</ref><ref name="indiaglitz.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.indiaglitz.com/the-list-of-movies-missed-by-ajith-vijay-kamal-rajini-and-telugufont-news-114946-slide5 |title=The list of movies missed by Ajith Vijay Kamal Rajini and |work=indiaglitz.com |access-date=11 September 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924190216/http://www.indiaglitz.com/the-list-of-movies-missed-by-ajith-vijay-kamal-rajini-and-telugufont-news-114946-slide5 |archive-date=24 September 2015 }}</ref> Shankar revealed that he even approached [[Kamal Haasan]] for the film, but he was doing ''[[Hey Ram]]'' at that time.<ref name="Sudhir Srinivasan">{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/an-exclusive-interview-with-director-shankar/article6491753.ece |title=Shankar and I |author=Sudhir Srinivasan |work=The Hindu |access-date=11 September 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160115160136/http://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/an-exclusive-interview-with-director-shankar/article6491753.ece |archive-date=15 January 2016 }}</ref>{{Sfn|Dhananjayan|2011|page=211}} [[Arjun Sarja|Arjun]], who had previously collaborated with Shankar in ''[[Gentleman (1993 film)|Gentleman]]'' (1993), was willing to offer bulk schedule dates for the film and was subsequently signed on.{{Sfn|Dhananjayan|2011|page=211}}<ref name="Minnoviyam Star Tracks">{{cite web|url=http://chandrag.tripod.com/nov98/ |title=Minnoviyam Star Tracks |publisher=tripod.com |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120709043545/http://chandrag.tripod.com/nov98/ |archive-date= 9 July 2012 }}</ref>


Shankar noted that he was interested in casting [[Meena (actress)|Meena]] in the leading role, but he opted against doing so as the actress was working with Arjun in another film in the same period, ''[[Rhythm (2000 film)|Rhythm]]'' (2000).<ref name="Shanker">{{cite web|url=http://www.sify.com/movies/tamil/interview.php?id=6006633&cid=2408 |title=Shanker |publisher=Sify movies |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140305121207/http://www.sify.com/movies/tamil/interview.php?id=6006633&cid=2408 |archive-date= 5 March 2014 }}</ref><ref name="web.archive.org">https://web.archive.org/web/19991118124233/http://www.screenindia.com/south.htm</ref> Subsequently, [[Manisha Koirala]], who worked with Shankar in ''[[Indian (1996 film)|Indian]]'', was selected to play Arjun's heroine. [[Raghuvaran]] was signed to play the chief antagonist in the film, while [[Vadivelu]] and [[Manivannan]] were also chosen to play other characters. Despite reports that [[Shilpa Shetty]] was added to the cast in February 1999, it was later clarified to be untrue.<ref name="Do not disturb">{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/1999/feb/12ss.htm |title=Do not disturb |publisher=Rediff |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090215092929/http://www.rediff.com/movies/1999/feb/12ss.htm |archive-date=15 February 2009 }}</ref> [[Laila Mehdin|Laila]], who had made her acting debut earlier in the year with ''[[Kallazhagar]]'', was signed on to portray the role planned with Shetty instead.<ref name="chandrag.tripod.com">{{cite web|url=http://chandrag.tripod.com/feb99/|title=Minnoviyam Star Tracks|publisher=tripod.com}}</ref> Originally, her role was supposed to feature throughout the film, but Shankar shortened her character, owing to her call sheet problems.{{Sfn|Dhananjayan|2011|page=211}} Renowned [[muralist]] Natanam and [[Kalairani]] were cast as Arjun's parents.<ref name="Muralist Natanam honoured">{{cite web|url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/Muralist-Natanam-honoured/2013/05/14/article1588569.ece?service=print |title=Muralist Natanam honoured |work=The New Indian Express |access-date=11 September 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304104140/http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/Muralist-Natanam-honoured/2013/05/14/article1588569.ece?service=print |archive-date= 4 March 2016 }}</ref><ref name="Magic of metal">{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindu.com/2001/06/18/stories/13180073.htm |title=Magic of metal |access-date=11 September 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160115160136/http://www.thehindu.com/2001/06/18/stories/13180073.htm |work=[[The Hindu]] |date=2001-06-18 |archive-date=15 January 2016 }}</ref><ref name="Power-packed performer">{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindu.com/2001/01/11/stories/09110354.htm |title=Power-packed performer |access-date=11 September 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160115160136/http://www.thehindu.com/2001/01/11/stories/09110354.htm |work=[[The Hindu]] |date=2001-01-11 |archive-date=15 January 2016 }}</ref> [[S. Sashikanth]], who went on to produce films like ''[[Thamizh Padam]]'' (2010) and ''[[Kaaviya Thalaivan (2014 film)|Kaaviya Thalaivan]]'' (2014), and K. R. Mathivaanan, who directed ''[[Aridhu Aridhu]]'' (2010), worked as assistant directors.<ref name="Sudhish Kamath">{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-metroplus/why-not/article2952125.ece |title=Why Not? |work=The Hindu |date=2 March 2012 |access-date=11 September 2015 |author=Sudhish Kamath |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160115160136/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-metroplus/why-not/article2952125.ece |archive-date=15 January 2016 }}</ref><ref name="nikhil raghavan">{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-cinemaplus/getting-better/article979903.ece |title=Getting better |author=nikhil raghavan |work=The Hindu |access-date=11 September 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160115160136/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-cinemaplus/getting-better/article979903.ece |archive-date=15 January 2016 }}</ref>
The lead role was initially written with [[Rajinikanth]] in mind, but he was unwilling to star in the film.<ref>{{Cite news |date=7 September 2013 |title=Rajinikanth was to do Shankar's 'Mudhalvan' |work=[[The Times of India]] |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/did-you-know-/Rajinikanth-was-to-do-Shankars-Mudhalvan/articleshow/22368963.cms |url-status=live |access-date=11 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150113044500/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/did-you-know-/Rajinikanth-was-to-do-Shankars-Mudhalvan/articleshow/22368963.cms |archive-date=13 January 2015}}</ref> [[Vijay (actor)|Vijay]] was also considered by Shankar for the role, though the actor turned the offer down.<ref>{{Cite web |date=27 December 2011 |title=Shankar is the Spielberg of Indian cinema: Vijay |url=http://www.sify.com/movies/shankar-is-the-spielberg-of-indian-cinema-vijay-news-tamil-lmzmjUhiafh.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140305121203/http://www.sify.com/movies/shankar-is-the-spielberg-of-indian-cinema-vijay-news-tamil-lmzmjUhiafh.html |archive-date=5 March 2014 |access-date=27 December 2013 |website=[[Sify]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Aishwarya |first=S. |date=11 February 2010 |title=Shankar connects with fans |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-tamilnadu/Shankar-connects-with-fans/article15982755.ece |url-status=live |access-date=22 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230622072103/https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-tamilnadu/Shankar-connects-with-fans/article15982755.ece |archive-date=22 June 2023}}</ref> Shankar revealed that he even approached [[Kamal Haasan]] for the film, but he was doing ''[[Hey Ram]]'' at that time.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Srinivasan |first=Sudhir |date=11 October 2014 |title=Shankar and I |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/an-exclusive-interview-with-director-shankar/article6491753.ece |url-status=live |access-date=11 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160115160136/http://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/an-exclusive-interview-with-director-shankar/article6491753.ece |archive-date=15 January 2016}}</ref>{{Sfn|Dhananjayan|2011|page=211}} [[Arjun Sarja|Arjun]], who had previously collaborated with Shankar in ''[[Gentleman (1993 film)|Gentleman]]'' (1993), was willing to offer bulk schedule dates for the film and was subsequently signed on.{{Sfn|Dhananjayan|2011|page=211}}


The film was jointly launched by [[S.Shankar]] and his co director [[R. Madhesh]] in October 1998 at an event attended by actors and technicians from the Tamil film industry, with actors Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan being the special invitees.<ref name="Tamil Movie News!">{{cite web |url=http://www.indolink.com/tamil/cinema/News/98/Nov/news1.htm |title=Tamil Movie News! |publisher=indolink.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141219170120/http://www.indolink.com/tamil/cinema/News/98/Nov/news1.htm |archive-date=19 December 2014 |access-date=15 March 2011 }}</ref> Production continued for several months, with reports suggesting that the film was delayed due to Manisha Koirala's unavailability though Shankar later stressed the production work demanded such delay. Parts of the film were also shot in [[Bikaner]], [[Rajasthan]] while the team also shot extensively in rural [[Tamil Nadu]].<ref name="Film maker with a Midas touch">{{cite web|url=http://www.cscsarchive.org:8081/MediaArchive/art.nsf/(docid)/82C77484216203FC65256940004BD6F1 |title=Film maker with a Midas touch|work=The Hindu |access-date=15 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110725212136/http://www.cscsarchive.org:8081/MediaArchive/art.nsf/%28docid%29/82C77484216203FC65256940004BD6F1 |archive-date=25 July 2011 }}</ref> The film's cinematographer later noted that the scenes involving crowds shot on [[Anna Salai]], [[Chennai]] were among the hardest and most satisfying scenes he had worked on.<ref name="behindwoods.com">{{cite web|url=http://behindwoods.com/tamil-movies-cinema-news-10/k-v-anand-talks-in-detail-about-his-mudhalvan-experience.html |title=K V Anand talks in detail about his Mudhalvan experience |publisher=behindwoods.com |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131227235602/http://behindwoods.com/tamil-movies-cinema-news-10/k-v-anand-talks-in-detail-about-his-mudhalvan-experience.html |archive-date=27 December 2013 }}</ref> The song "[[Shakalaka Baby]]" was the last song to be shot, with [[Sushmita Sen]] selected to feature in a special appearance for the song.<ref name="Gentleman are back">{{cite web|url=http://www.cscsarchive.org:8081/MediaArchive/art.nsf/(docid)/C6382B502514142865256940004BD6FB|title=Gentleman are back|date=29 Oct 1999|work=The Indian Express|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110725212153/http://www.cscsarchive.org:8081/MediaArchive/art.nsf/%28docid%29/C6382B502514142865256940004BD6FB |archive-date=25 July 2011}}</ref><ref name="Frank and forthright">{{cite web|url=http://www.cscsarchive.org:8081/MediaArchive/art.nsf/(docid)/E26EE954751EF176E5256BB4002A7B71 |title=Frank and forthright |work=Deccan Herald |access-date=15 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110725212210/http://www.cscsarchive.org:8081/MediaArchive/art.nsf/%28docid%29/E26EE954751EF176E5256BB4002A7B71 |archive-date=25 July 2011}}</ref><ref name="ReferenceA">https://web.archive.org/web/20001011064646/http://www.dinakaran.com/cinema/english/interviews/2000/3-1/shankar.htm</ref> Stunt master [[Peter Hein]] revealed that he worked as a body double for Arjun in the scene where he had to run nude on the streets.<ref name="Living on the edge">{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-metroplus/living-on-the-edge/article3190901.ece |title=Living on the edge |work=The Hindu |access-date=11 September 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160115160136/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-metroplus/living-on-the-edge/article3190901.ece |archive-date=15 January 2016 }}</ref>
Shankar noted that he was interested in casting [[Meena (actress)|Meena]] as the lead actress, but opted against doing so as the actress was working with Arjun in another film in the same period, ''[[Rhythm (2000 film)|Rhythm]]'' (2000).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Shanker |url=http://www.sify.com/movies/tamil/interview.php?id=6006633&cid=2408 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140305121207/http://www.sify.com/movies/tamil/interview.php?id=6006633&cid=2408 |archive-date=5 March 2014 |access-date=27 December 2013 |website=[[Sify]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Prasad |first=Ayyappa |title=A bundle of nerves, again! |url=http://www.screenindia.com/south.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19991118124233/http://www.screenindia.com/south.htm |archive-date=18 November 1999 |access-date=5 September 2020 |website=[[Screen (magazine)|Screen]]}}</ref> Subsequently, [[Manisha Koirala]], who worked with Shankar in ''[[Indian (1996 film)|Indian]]'', was selected to play that role. [[Raghuvaran]] was signed to play the chief antagonist in the film, while [[Vadivelu]] and [[Manivannan]] were also chosen to play other characters. Despite reports that [[Shilpa Shetty]] was added to the cast in February 1999, it was later clarified to be untrue.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rajitha |date=12 February 1999 |title=Do not disturb |url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/1999/feb/12ss.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090215092929/http://www.rediff.com/movies/1999/feb/12ss.htm |archive-date=15 February 2009 |access-date=28 September 2008 |website=[[Rediff.com]]}}</ref> [[Laila Mehdin|Laila]], who had made her acting debut earlier in the year with ''[[Kallazhagar]]'', was signed on to appear in the film. Originally, her role was supposed to feature throughout the film, but Shankar shortened her character, owing to her call sheet problems.{{Sfn|Dhananjayan|2011|page=211}} Renowned [[muralist]] Natanam and [[Kalairani]] were cast as Arjun's parents.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 May 2013 |title=Muralist Natanam honoured |url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/Muralist-Natanam-honoured/2013/05/14/article1588569.ece?service=print |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304104140/http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/Muralist-Natanam-honoured/2013/05/14/article1588569.ece?service=print |archive-date=4 March 2016 |access-date=11 September 2015 |website=[[The New Indian Express]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=18 June 2001 |title=Magic of metal |url=http://www.thehindu.com/2001/06/18/stories/13180073.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160115160136/http://www.thehindu.com/2001/06/18/stories/13180073.htm |archive-date=15 January 2016 |access-date=11 September 2015 |website=[[The Hindu]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=11 January 2001 |title=Power-packed performer |url=http://www.thehindu.com/2001/01/11/stories/09110354.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160115160136/http://www.thehindu.com/2001/01/11/stories/09110354.htm |archive-date=15 January 2016 |access-date=11 September 2015 |website=[[The Hindu]]}}</ref> [[S. Sashikanth]], who went on to produce films like ''[[Tamizh Padam]]'' (2010) and ''[[Kaaviya Thalaivan (2014 film)|Kaaviya Thalaivan]]'' (2014), and K. R. Mathivaanan, who directed ''[[Aridhu Aridhu]]'' (2010), worked as assistant directors.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Kamath |first=Sudhish |author-link=Sudhish Kamath |date=2 March 2012 |title=Why Not? |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-metroplus/why-not/article2952125.ece |url-status=live |access-date=11 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160115160136/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-metroplus/why-not/article2952125.ece |archive-date=15 January 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Raghavan |first=Nikhil |date=26 December 2010 |title=Getting better |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-cinemaplus/Getting-better/article15608523.ece |url-status=live |access-date=22 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230622072752/https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-cinemaplus/Getting-better/article15608523.ece |archive-date=22 June 2023}}</ref>


==Themes and influences==
The film was jointly launched by S. Shankar and his co-director [[R. Madhesh]] in October 1998 at an event attended by actors and technicians from the Tamil film industry, with actors Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan being the special invitees.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sandya |title=***Tamil Movie News*** |url=http://www.indolink.com/tamil/cinema/News/98/Nov/news1.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141219170120/http://www.indolink.com/tamil/cinema/News/98/Nov/news1.htm |archive-date=19 December 2014 |access-date=15 March 2011 |website=Indolink}}</ref> Production continued for several months, with reports suggesting that the film was delayed due to Manisha Koirala's unavailability though Shankar later stressed the production work demanded such delay. Parts of the film were also shot in [[Bikaner]], [[Rajasthan]] while the team also shot extensively in rural [[Tamil Nadu]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Reddy |first=T. Krithika |date=5 November 1999 |title=Film maker with a Midas touch |url=http://www.cscsarchive.org:8081/MediaArchive/art.nsf/(docid)/82C77484216203FC65256940004BD6F1 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110725212136/http://www.cscsarchive.org:8081/MediaArchive/art.nsf/%28docid%29/82C77484216203FC65256940004BD6F1 |archive-date=25 July 2011 |access-date=15 March 2011 |website=[[The Hindu]]}}</ref> The film's cinematographer Anand later noted that the scenes involving crowds shot on [[Anna Salai]], [[Chennai]] were among the hardest and most satisfying scenes he had worked on.<ref>{{Cite web |date=6 October 2013 |title=''Rajini and Vijay couldn't do it for unknown reasons'', K.V.Anand |url=http://behindwoods.com/tamil-movies-cinema-news-10/k-v-anand-talks-in-detail-about-his-mudhalvan-experience.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131227235602/http://behindwoods.com/tamil-movies-cinema-news-10/k-v-anand-talks-in-detail-about-his-mudhalvan-experience.html |archive-date=27 December 2013 |access-date=27 December 2013 |website=Behindwoods}}</ref> The song "Shakalaka Baby" was the last song to be shot, with [[Sushmita Sen]] selected to feature in a special appearance for the song.<ref>{{Cite web |date=29 October 1999 |title=Gentleman are back |url=http://www.cscsarchive.org:8081/MediaArchive/art.nsf/(docid)/C6382B502514142865256940004BD6FB |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110725212153/http://www.cscsarchive.org:8081/MediaArchive/art.nsf/%28docid%29/C6382B502514142865256940004BD6FB |archive-date=25 July 2011 |access-date=15 March 2011 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Venkatesh |first=Jyothi |date=28 April 2002 |title=Frank and forthright |url=http://www.cscsarchive.org:8081/MediaArchive/art.nsf/(docid)/E26EE954751EF176E5256BB4002A7B71 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110725212210/http://www.cscsarchive.org:8081/MediaArchive/art.nsf/%28docid%29/E26EE954751EF176E5256BB4002A7B71 |archive-date=25 July 2011 |access-date=15 March 2011 |website=[[Deccan Herald]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=1 March 2000 |title=Interview: Director Shankar Speaks Out His Mind |url=http://www.dinakaran.com/cinema/english/interviews/2000/3-1/shankar.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20001011064646/http://www.dinakaran.com/cinema/english/interviews/2000/3-1/shankar.htm |archive-date=11 October 2000 |access-date=12 January 2022 |website=[[Dinakaran]]}}</ref> Stunt master [[Peter Hein]] revealed that he worked as a body double for Arjun in the scene where he had to run nude on the streets.<ref>{{Cite news |date=15 April 2006 |title=Living on the edge |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-metroplus/living-on-the-edge/article3190901.ece |url-status=live |access-date=11 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160115160136/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-metroplus/living-on-the-edge/article3190901.ece |archive-date=15 January 2016}}</ref>


The film dealt with the theme of a television cameraman who is forced to take over the duty of Chief Minister for one day. It also dealt with the concept of opportunities for educated people in politics and demonstrated it is possible to bring change in the country. The film's basic idea was inspired from [[Nixon interviews|Nixon-Frost interviews]] which were broadcast in 1977.{{Sfn|Dhananjayan|2011|page=210}}
== Themes and influences ==


==Music==
The film dealt with the theme of a television cameraman who is forced to take over the duty of Chief Minister for one day. It also dealt with the concept of opportunities for educated people in politics and demonstrated it is possible to bring change in the country. The film's basic idea was inspired from [[Nixon interviews|Nixon-Frost interviews]] which were broadcast in 1977 and also inspired by Indian actor [[Sivaji Ganesan]] being named the honorary mayor of [[Niagara Falls, New York]] for one day during his visit to the United States.{{Sfn|Dhananjayan|2011|page=210}}<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 March 2022 |title=The Little-Known But Fascinating Connection Between Film Mudhalvan and Shivaji Ganesan |url=https://www.news18.com/news/movies/the-little-known-but-fascinating-connection-between-film-mudhalvan-and-shivaji-ganesan-4896890.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220711064439/https://www.news18.com/news/movies/the-little-known-but-fascinating-connection-between-film-mudhalvan-and-shivaji-ganesan-4896890.html |archive-date=11 July 2022 |access-date=11 July 2022 |website=[[News18]] |language=en}}</ref>


== Soundtrack ==
{{Infobox album
{{Infobox album
| name         = Mudhalvan
| name       = Mudhalvan
| type         = [[soundtrack]]
| type       = soundtrack
| artist       = [[A. R. Rahman]]
| artist     = [[A. R. Rahman]]
| cover       =  
| cover     =
| alt         =  
| alt       =
| released     = 1999
| released   = 31 October 1999
| recorded     = [[Panchathan Record Inn]], [[Chennai]]
| recorded   = Panchathan Record Inn, Chennai
| venue       =  
| venue     =
| studio       =  
| studio     = Panchathan Studios, A.M Studios
| genre       = [[Feature film soundtrack]]
| genre     = [[Film soundtrack|feature film soundtrack]]
| length       =  
| length     = 36:19
| language     =  
| language   = [[Tamil language|Tamil]]
| label       = Five Star Audio<br>Star Music<br>Hit Musics
| label     = Five Star audio
| producer     = A. R. Rahman
| producer   = [[A. R. Rahman]]
| prev_title   = [[Thakshak]]
| prev_title = [[Thakshak]]
| prev_year   = 1999
| prev_year = 1999
| next_title   = [[Taj Mahal (2000 film)|Taj Mahal]]
| next_title = [[Pukar (2000 film)|Pukar]]
| next_year   = 1999
| next_year = 2000
}}
}}
The soundtrack features six songs composed by [[A. R. Rahman]] and lyrics penned by [[Vairamuthu]]. The song "Shakalaka Baby" was re-edited by A. R. Rahman and featured on the international musical production ''[[Bombay Dreams]]'', which ran in [[Europe]] and [[North America]] from 2002 to 2005. This version was also released as a single. A [[Standard Chinese|Mandarin Chinese]] remix of the track sung by [[Singapore]]an singer [[Kelly Poon]] was featured in her album ''[[In the Heart of the World|In the Heart Of The World]]'' (2007).{{Sfn|Dhananjayan|2011|page=211}}


The release of the soundtrack was held at [[Sathyam cinemas|Sathyam Cinemas]], [[Chennai]], on 31 October 1999 with two songs from the film being performed on stage. The special guests for the event were actor [[Kamal Haasan]] and actress [[Sushmita Sen]], who performed an [[item number]] in the film. The event was well attended by the cast and the crew of the film, with other guests including cinematographer [[P. C. Sriram]], actress [[Sarika]], and actor [[Suriya]].<ref name="First Shot">{{cite web|title=First Shot|url=http://www.cscsarchive.org:8081/MediaArchive/art.nsf/(docid)/64C3D6F0142A9044652569400060594C|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110725212329/http://www.cscsarchive.org:8081/MediaArchive/art.nsf/%28docid%29/64C3D6F0142A9044652569400060594C|archive-date=25 July 2011|access-date=15 March 2011|work=The Indian Express}}</ref>
The soundtrack features six songs composed by [[A. R. Rahman]] and lyrics penned by [[Vairamuthu]], except Shakalaka Baby which Shankar wrote.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mudhalvan / Jodi |url=https://avdigital.in/products/mudhalvan-jodi |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230206214547/https://avdigital.in/products/mudhalvan-jodi |archive-date=6 February 2023 |access-date=22 June 2023 |website=AVDigital |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=20 October 1999 |title=Mudhalvan (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) |url=https://music.apple.com/in/album/mudhalvan-original-motion-picture-soundtrack/635851508 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230622073651/https://music.apple.com/in/album/mudhalvan-original-motion-picture-soundtrack/635851508 |archive-date=22 June 2023 |access-date=22 June 2023 |website=[[Apple Music]]}}</ref> The song "Shakalaka Baby" was re-edited by A. R. Rahman and featured on the international musical production ''[[Bombay Dreams]]'', which ran in [[Europe]] and [[North America]] from 2002 to 2005. This version was also released as a single. A [[Standard Chinese|Mandarin Chinese]] remix of the track sung by [[Singapore]]an singer [[Kelly Poon]] was featured in her album ''[[In the Heart of the World|In the Heart Of The World]]'' (2007).{{Sfn|Dhananjayan|2011|page=211}}


The soundtrack was a success, and the initial day audio sale alone was more than three lakh units.<ref name="M Suganth">{{cite news |author=M Suganth |date=11 November 2011 |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-11-11/chennai/30386230_1_audio-cds-sony-music-priya-krishnan |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120717013127/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-11-11/chennai/30386230_1_audio-cds-sony-music-priya-krishnan |url-status=dead |archive-date=17 July 2012 |work=[[The Times of India]] |title=Audio CDs stay in tune with digital era }}</ref> The song "Azhagana Rakshasiye" is based on Rithigowla Raga.<ref name="CHARULATHA MANI">{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/music/riveting-ritigowla/article2659559.ece |title=Riveting Ritigowla |author=CHARULATHA MANI |work=The Hindu |access-date=11 September 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160115160136/http://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/music/riveting-ritigowla/article2659559.ece |archive-date=15 January 2016 }}</ref>
The release of the soundtrack was held at [[Sathyam cinemas|Sathyam Cinemas]], [[Chennai]], on 31 October 1999 with two songs from the film being performed on stage. The special guests for the event were actor [[Kamal Haasan]] and actress [[Sushmita Sen]], who performed an [[item number]] in the film. The event was well attended by the cast and the crew of the film, with other guests including cinematographer [[P. C. Sriram]], actress [[Sarika]], and actor [[Suriya]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=MR |date=31 October 1999 |title=First Shot |url=http://www.cscsarchive.org:8081/MediaArchive/art.nsf/(docid)/64C3D6F0142A9044652569400060594C |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110725212329/http://www.cscsarchive.org:8081/MediaArchive/art.nsf/%28docid%29/64C3D6F0142A9044652569400060594C |archive-date=25 July 2011 |access-date=15 March 2011 |website=[[The New Indian Express]]}}</ref>


{{tracklist
The soundtrack was a critical and commercial success; the initial day audio sale alone exceeded three lakh units.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Suganth |first=M |date=11 November 2011 |title=Audio CDs stay in tune with digital era |work=[[The Times of India]] |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/audio-cds-stay-in-tune-with-digital-era/articleshow/10685325.cms |url-status=live |access-date=22 June 2023 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230622074018/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/audio-cds-stay-in-tune-with-digital-era/articleshow/10685325.cms |archive-date=22 June 2023}}</ref> The song "Azhagana Rakshasiye" is based on Rithigowla raga.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Mani |first=Charulatha |author-link=Charulatha Mani |date=25 November 2011 |title=Riveting Ritigowla |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/music/riveting-ritigowla/article2659559.ece |url-status=live |access-date=11 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160115160136/http://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/music/riveting-ritigowla/article2659559.ece |archive-date=15 January 2016}}</ref>
| headline = Track listing
 
{{Track listing
| headline = Tamil
| all_lyrics = [[Vairamuthu]]
| extra_column = Singer(s)
| extra_column = Singer(s)
| all_music = [[A. R. Rahman]]
| all_lyrics = [[Vairamuthu]]
| title1 = Kurukku Chiruththavale
| title1 = Kurukku Chiruththavale
| extra1 = [[Hariharan (singer)|Hariharan]],  [[Mahalakshmi Iyer]]
| extra1 = [[Hariharan (singer)|Hariharan]],  [[Mahalakshmi Iyer]]
| length1 = 6:42
| length1 = 6:42
| title2 = Mudhalvanae
| title2 = Mudhalvanae
| extra2 = [[Shankar Mahadevan]], [[Mano (singer)|Mano]], [[Srinivas (singer)|Srinivas]], [[S. Janaki]]
| extra2 = [[Shankar Mahadevan]], [[S. Janaki]]
| length2 = 5:29
| length2 = 5:29
| title3 = Uppu Karuvadu
| title3 = Uppu Karuvadu
Line 131: Line 134:
| length4 = 6:11
| length4 = 6:11
| title5 = Ulundhu Vithakkaiyilae
| title5 = Ulundhu Vithakkaiyilae
| extra5 = Srinivas, [[Swarnalatha]], Hariharan, Mahalakshmi Iyer
| extra5 = [[Srinivas (singer)|Srinivas]], [[Swarnalatha]], Hariharan, Mahalakshmi Iyer
| length5 = 6:05
| length5 = 6:05
| title6 = [[Shakalaka Baby]]
| title6 = Shakalaka Baby
| extra6 = [[Vasundhara Das]], [[Pravin Mani]]
| extra6 = [[Vasundhara Das]], [[Pravin Mani]]
| length6 = 5:23
| length6 = 5:23
| total_length =  
| total_length = 35:28 <!-- Automatically generated with User:JPxG/TrackSum.js -->
}}
 
==Release==
The film's release prints were {{Convert|4876|m|ft|abbr=on}} long.{{Sfn|Dhananjayan|2011|page=210}} Upon release on 7 November 1999, this high-budget production won positive reviews and was successful at the box office. The film was then dubbed and released in [[Cinema of Andhra Pradesh|Telugu]] as ''[[Oke Okkadu]]'' and later remade in [[Bollywood|Hindi]] as ''[[Nayak (2001 Hindi film)|Nayak]]'' starring [[Anil Kapoor]].<ref name="celebrates 100 days">{{cite web|url=http://www.pvv.ntnu.no/~kailasan/mudhalvan/mudhalvan100day.htm |title=Mudhalvan - the mega hit - celebrates 100 days |publisher=ntnu.no |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719224729/http://www.pvv.ntnu.no/~kailasan/mudhalvan/mudhalvan100day.htm |archive-date=19 July 2011 }}</ref> The film went on to run for over one hundred days in cinemas with an event being held at Kamaraj Hall on 25 February 2000 to mark one hundred days since release. The event, similar to the launch, attracted several people from the film industry with Kamal Haasan, once again, being the chief guest of the event.<ref name="celebrates 100 days" />
 
== Reception ==
On 21 November 1999, ''Ananda Vikatan'' in its review gave 43 marks and appreciated the film stating that: "One can see Shankar's grandeur in the way he presented a social problem magnificently. Shankar has approached a serious social issue with usual entertainment elements".{{Sfn|Dhananjayan|2011|page=211}} ''[[The Hindu]]'' said "Shankar scores again". In regard to the lead performances, Arjun is described as having "acquitted himself with aplomb", while Manisha's performance was criticized with claims that she "lacks the freshness that one always associates her with".<ref name="Mudhalvan">{{cite web|url=http://www.cscsarchive.org:8081/MediaArchive/art.nsf/(docid)/E8880B73B7238248652569400065DD65 |title=Mudhalvan |work=The Hindu |access-date=9 February 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110725212236/http://www.cscsarchive.org:8081/MediaArchive/art.nsf/%28docid%29/E8880B73B7238248652569400065DD65 |archive-date=25 July 2011 }}</ref> The critic also referred to Shankar's direction and Sujatha's dialogs as a "positive", while drawing praise to the videos of the songs describing that "every song and dance sequence seems a magnum opus by itself". ''[[The New Indian Express]]'' described the film as "absorbing" and praised certain scenes, although it criticized the videos of the songs as a "fiasco".<ref name="Absorbing film">{{cite web|url=http://www.cscsarchive.org:8081/MediaArchive/art.nsf/(docid)/1B2DE58D8F77D2F165256941003DC8E8 |title=Absorbing film |work=The Indian Express |access-date=15 March 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110725212302/http://www.cscsarchive.org:8081/MediaArchive/art.nsf/%28docid%29/1B2DE58D8F77D2F165256941003DC8E8 |archive-date=25 July 2011 }}</ref> ''Indiaglitz'' wrote: "Mudhalvan spoke about current affairs in India. With an absorbing screenplay and conveying the message of change in the political system, the film was a runaway hit."
 
==Awards==
{{Unreferenced section|date=April 2020}}
 
*[[Filmfare Best Music Director Award (Tamil)|Filmfare Best Music Director Award]] - [[A. R. Rahman]]
*[[Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer – Tamil]] - [[Vasundhara Das]] for "[[Shakalaka Baby]]"
*[[Filmfare Award for Best Dance Choreographer - South]] - [[Chinni Prakash]]
*[[Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Actor]] - [[Arjun Sarja]]
*[[Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Villain]] - [[Raghuvaran]]
*[[Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Music Director]] - A. R. Rahman
* Nominated - [[Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Comedian]] - [[Vadivelu]]
* Nominated - [[Filmfare Best Actor Award (Tamil)|Filmfare Award for Best Actor]] - Arjun Sarja
 
==Legacy==
 
The scene where a crowd gathers around the protagonist's house to persuade him to contest elections was included by ''Behindwoods.com'' in their list of "Top 20 Mass Scenes".<ref name="9. Mudhalvan - Top 20 Mass Scenes">{{cite web|url=http://behindwoods.com/tamil-movies/slideshow/top-20-mass-scenes/9-mudhalvan.html |title=9. Mudhalvan - Top 20 Mass Scenes |work=behindwoods.com |access-date=11 September 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150428074417/http://behindwoods.com/tamil-movies/slideshow/top-20-mass-scenes/9-mudhalvan.html |archive-date=28 April 2015 }}</ref>
 
===Popular culture===
Songs from the film's soundtrack inspired a number of Tamil film titles. [[Rama Narayanan]] directed a film titled ''[[Shakalaka Baby (film)|Shakalaka Baby]]'' in 2002, while [[Radha Mohan]] made ''[[Uppu Karuvaadu]]'' in 2015. A film titled ''Lukku Vida Thonalaiyaa'', a line from the song "Shakalaka Baby", also began production in 2002 but was not released.<ref name="01-2-02">{{Cite web|url=http://www.dinakaran.com/cinema/english/cinenews/2002/01-2-02.html|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20041029193710/http://www.dinakaran.com/cinema/english/cinenews/2002/01-2-02.html|archive-date = 29 October 2004|title = 01-2-02}}</ref>
 
The scenes, songs and dialogues from the film has been parodied in ''[[Budget Padmanabhan]]'' (2000),<ref name="ReferenceB">''Budget Padmanabhan'' (DVD): clip from 1.40.28 to 1.40.43</ref> ''[[Kandha Kadamba Kathir Vela]]'' (2000),<ref name="ReferenceC">''Kandha Kadamba Kathir Vela'' (DVD): clip from 45.21 to 45.29</ref> ''[[Kanna Unnai Thedukiren]]'' (2001),<ref name="youtube.com">{{cite av media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rl0knouH1UA |title=Kanna unnai thedukiren Vivek Comedy |date=29 July 2013 |via=YouTube |access-date=11 September 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160115160136/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rl0knouH1UA |archive-date=15 January 2016 }}</ref> ''[[Run (2002 film)|Run]]'' (2002),<ref name="ReferenceD">''Run'' (DVD): clip from 1.28.35 to 1.28.38</ref> ''[[Dubai Seenu]]'' (2007),<ref name="ReferenceE">''Dubai Seenu'' (DVD): clip from 2.08.33 to 2.09.00</ref> ''[[Sivaji (film)|Sivaji]]'' (2007),<ref name="ReferenceF">''Sivaji'' (DVD): clip from 1.12.07 to 1.12.10</ref> ''[[Singakutty]]'' (2008),<ref name="Singakutty Tamil Movie - Vivek Mudh">{{cite av media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tCdW8J3GSqw&list=PLP1LPoBS9iAr3niMhsVhcw0qlIsQeQcNq&index=13 |title=Singakutty Tamil Movie - Vivek Mudhalvan Spoof - Vivek Comedy |date=23 January 2015 |via=YouTube |access-date=11 September 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160115160135/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tCdW8J3GSqw&list=PLP1LPoBS9iAr3niMhsVhcw0qlIsQeQcNq&index=13 |archive-date=15 January 2016 }}</ref> and ''[[Kaalaippani]]'' (2008)<ref name="Kaalai Pani Tamil Movie - Mudhalvan">{{cite av media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MknEry6S_gU&index=18&list=PL6eYJImIZdQ4LxTa-45wutjUx_pji8Ayx |title=Kaalai Pani Tamil Movie - Mudhalvan Spoof - Comedy Scene |date=28 November 2014 |via=YouTube |access-date=11 September 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160115160135/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MknEry6S_gU&index=18&list=PL6eYJImIZdQ4LxTa-45wutjUx_pji8Ayx |archive-date=15 January 2016 }}</ref>
 
==Notes==
 
{{Reflist|group=lower-alpha}}
 
==References==
 
{{Reflist|2}}
 
==External links==
* {{IMDb title|0220656|Mudhalvan}}
 
==Bibliography==
 
*{{cite book|last1=Dhananjayan|first1= G.|author-link=G. Dhananjayan|title=The Best of Tamil Cinema, 1931 to 2010: 1931–1976|year=2011|publisher=Galatta Media|isbn=978-81-921043-0-0}}
 
{{S. Shankar}}
{{FilmfareAwardBestTamilMovie}}
{{A. R. Rahman}}
{{Authority control}}
 
[[Category:1999 films]]
[[Category:Indian films]]
[[Category:Tamil-language films]]
[[Category:Indian political drama films]]
[[Category:Indian action drama films]]
[[Category:Indian political thriller films]]
[[Category:Political action films]]
[[Category:Films about corruption in India]]
[[Category:Journalism adapted into films]]
[[Category:Films about journalists]]
[[Category:Tamil films remade in other languages]]
[[Category:1990s Tamil-language films]]
[[Category:Films scored by A. R. Rahman]]
[[Category:Films directed by S. Shankar]]
[[Category:Films shot in Rajasthan]]
[[Category:Films featuring an item number]]
[[Category:Films about elections]]
[[Category:Fictional portrayals of the Tamil Nadu Police]]
[[Category:1990s action drama films]]
[[Category:1990s political thriller films]]
{{Use dmy dates|date=February 2018}}
{{Infobox film
| name          = Mudhalvan
| image          = Mudhalvan.jpg
| caption        = Film poster
| director      = [[S. Shankar]]
| writer        = [[Sujatha Rangarajan]]
| screenplay    = S. Shankar
| story          = S. Shankar
| starring      = [[Arjun Sarja|Arjun]]<br />[[Raghuvaran]]<br />[[Manisha Koirala]]<br />[[Manivannan]]<br />[[Vadivelu]]
| producer      = S. Shankar <br> [[R. Madhesh]]
| music          = [[A. R. Rahman]]
| cinematography = [[K. V. Anand]]
| editing        = [[B. Lenin]]<br />[[V. T. Vijayan]]
| studio        = S Films
| distributor    = S Films
| released      = 7 November 1999
| runtime        = 171 minutes
| country        = India
| language      = Tamil
| budget        = {{INR|link=yes}}200 million<ref name="gross">{{cite web|url=http://www.dsrmedias.com/profile/movie/tamil/mudhalvan |title=Mudhalvan |access-date=5 September 2018 |publisher=dsrmedias }}</ref>
| gross          = {{INR|link=yes}}560 million<ref name="gross"/>
}}
'''''Mudhalvan''''' ({{Translation|'Chief Minister, leader'}}) is a 1999 Indian [[Tamil language|Tamil]]-language [[Political cinema|political]] [[action thriller film]]  produced by [[R. Madhesh]] and [[S. Shankar]] written, and directed by [[S. Shankar]]. The film features [[Arjun Sarja|Arjun]] and [[Manisha Koirala]] playing the lead with [[Raghuvaran]] playing the antagonist while [[Vadivelu]] and [[Manivannan]] feature in supporting roles. The film featured an award-winning soundtrack composed by [[A. R. Rahman]], cinematography by [[K. V. Anand]] and dialogues by [[Sujatha Rangarajan|Sujatha]].<ref name="Rediff"/>
 
The film revolves around an ambitious TV journalist, Pughazhendi, who gets his first interview with the [[Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu]]. Pughazh asks harder questions, and the Chief Minister starts trembling and asks him to put his money where his mike is and become his replacement CM for a day. After initially rejecting the offer, Pugazh agrees and does such a great job on his first day, that the actual cabinet collapses and fresh elections are held, where state voters eventually elect him to be their new official Chief Minister. The subsequent unpopularity and jealousy that the old Chief Minister goes through results in him taking revenge on Pugazh, and how he is stopped forms the crux of the story.
 
The film was released on 7 November 1999, as a [[Deepavali]] release. The film enjoyed positive critical acclaim and emerged as one of the top grossing Tamil films of 1999. The film ran for over 100 days in theaters and won awards on a regional scale. The film was then dubbed and released in [[Telugu language|Telugu]] as ''Oke Okkadu'' which was also  successful and later remade in [[Bollywood|Hindi]] as ''[[Nayak (2001 Hindi film)|Nayak]]'' (2001) starring [[Anil Kapoor]], [[Rani Mukherji]]. This movie was unofficial remade in [[Dhallywood]] ([[Cinema of Bangladesh]]) as ''[[Minister (2003 film)|Minister]]'' (2003) directed by [[Kazi Hayat]] starring [[Manna (actor)|Manna]], [[Moushumi]] and the film also loosely remade in [[Tollywood (Bengali cinema)|Tollywood]] ([[Cinema of West Bengal]]) as ''[[MLA Fatakeshto]]'' (2006) directed by [[Swapan Saha]] starring [[Mithun Chakraborty]].
 
==Plot==
N. Pugazhendi aka Pugazh ([[Arjun Sarja]]) is a news reporter working for QTV in Chennai. One day, a riot occurs between the students and the bus drivers in the city following a communal clash which disrupts normal life. The Chief Minister (CM) of the state, Aranganathar ([[Raghuvaran]]), informs the police over wireless not to arrest the protesters as they belong to his community and political party. The conversation is recorded by Pugazh in his video camera. Pugazh meets a village girl named Thenmozhi ([[Manisha Koirala]]) and falls in love with her. However, her father ([[Vijayakumar (Tamil actor)|Vijayakumar]]) does not accept the marriage proposal as he wants to get Thenmozhi married only to a government employee.
 
One day, QTV arranges for a live interview with Aranganathar and the anchor in charge does not turn up at the last moment. Pugazh is thrilled and excited as he gets the opportunity to interview the CM. During the course of the interview, Pugazh unmasks many events done by Aranganathar and his party against the welfare of the state, for political reasons with necessary evidences, and he also blames Aranganathar for not taking action while at the riot by evidencing his recorded video taken at the time of the riot. Aranganathar justifies his indifferent stands and challenges Pugazh to accept his post for a day so that he will realize the pressures faced on a daily basis. Pugazh, after a brief trepidation, accepts the challenge provided the constitution permits. Lawmakers confirm that such a provision is possible, and Pugazh is sworn in as the CM for 24 hours.
 
To everyone's surprise, Pugazh does not prefer speaking to the waiting media crew, but he gets into action immediately by collecting a list of irresponsible civil servants and issuing suspension letters immediately. He helps poor people rightfully reclaim houses allotted by the government and requests every Indian citizen to pay all required taxes even if it is for a day, highlighting the effects of avoiding the same. Mayakrishnan ([[Manivannan]]), an honest official, is the government secretary and helps Pugazh through his one-day mission. Finally, Pugazh digs a case of corruption against the ruling party leading to the arrest of Aranganathar.
 
The next day, Aranganathar retains as the CM and cancels all orders issued from the previous day. Taking Pugazh's success as his defeat and a demean to his long-standing political career, he plans to take revenge and sends goons to kill Pugazh, who escapes with heavy injuries. Aranganathar's image is tarnished before the public, and the coalition parties withdraw their support, resulting in dissolving the government and leading to another election.
 
A huge crowd gathers in front of Pugazh's house, requesting him to contest in the upcoming election. Other political parties also come forward to offer their support for their own reasons. However, Pugazh is not for it as he wants to have a safe and secure life. Thenmozhi's father advises him not to go in politics, while accepting him to marry Thenmozhi. Mayakrishnan makes him understand how much the people have gathered themselves and shows the plight of people and advises him to sacrifice his comfort zone for the sake of achieving heights in the politics and doing good for the people. Finally, Pugazh accepts to it and contests in the ensuing election and wins by the vast majority of voters ever in the political history of Tamil Nadu. After assuming the office, Pugazh is keen in the state development and gets busy in his schedule of doing welfare to the people, while Aranganathar and other politicians unite as they are worried by the change of events.
 
They hire a hitman to get Pugazh killed, but he escapes with the help of the Z Cadre security guard officials, who shoot the hitman to death. Pugazh, on knowing that Aranganathar is behind this, gets enraged and challenges the latter that the law will not spare him. Aranganathar plans to create a havoc in the rule of Pugazh, and hence, he has his men plant bombs across Chennai. Pugazh and Mayakrishnan get to know of this by a tactful inquiry of Chinnasamy ([[Cochin Haneefa]]), who is Aranganathar's right-hand henchman. The bomb squad diffuses all the bombs except one.
A bomb planted in Pugazh's house to kill Pugazh, instead claims the lives of his parents.
Aranganathar blames Pugazh to be the man behind the entire episode and claims it as a ploy to win public support.
Pugazh realizes that he will be prevented from performing his duties and invites Aranganathar to his office. As their conversation progresses, Pugazh pulls out a gun and shoots himself without causing any major injuries. He throws the gun to Aranganathar who catches it out of his reflexes. At the same time, the security guards officials rush in upon hearing gunfire and see Aranganathar pointing the gun at Pugazh. The security guards officials then shoot and kill Aranganathar to save Pugazh.
 
Pugazh feels glad that he can continue his mission without being interrupted, but he also feels guilty for having staged a false incident to kill Aranganathar. He confesses to Mayakrishnan that even he has been forced to play the game of politics. Mayakrishnan supports him by consoling that he played the politics only for a good cause and that Aranganathar deserves this. Thenmozhi's father realizes the greatness of Pugazhendhi and consents to the marriage.
 
The movie ends showing Tamil Nadu as a developed state under the rule of Pugazh with world class infrastructures and free of violence.
 
==Cast==
{{colbegin}}
* [[Arjun Sarja|Arjun]] as TV journalist/Chief Minister Pugazhenthi
* [[Raghuvaran]] as Chief Minister Aranganathar
* [[Manisha Koirala]] as Thenmozhi ([[Voice over]] by Durga)
* [[Manivannan]] as Chief Secretary Maya Krishnan
* [[Vadivelu]] as Palavesham
* [[Laila (actress)|Laila]] as Kalakkal Shuba, Pugazhenthi's former boss and colleague news reporter
* Artist Natanam as R. Narayanan, Pugazhenthi's father
* [[Kalairani]] as Pugazhenthi's mother
* [[Vijayakumar (Tamil actor)|Vijayakumar]] as Thenmozhi's father
* [[Cochin Haneefa]] as Chinnasamy, Aranganathar's right-hand henchman
* [[Fathima Babu]] as Maragadham, Aranganathar's wife
* [[S. V. Ramadoss]] as Minister Thirupathisamy, coalition party leader
* [[Besant Ravi]] as slum rogue Alei
* [[Scissor Manohar]] as a bus driver in the student riot
* [[Surya (Telugu actor)|Surya]] as Manohar, Chief of Security for Pugazhenthi
* [[Sampath Ram]] as Sub-Inspector
* Robo Chandru
* [[Kanal Kannan]] as auto driver (cameo appearance)
* [[Omakuchi Narasimhan]] as Palavesham's uncle (cameo appearance)
* [[Ahmed Khan (choreographer)|Ahmed Khan]] as a dancer in Shakalaka Baby song
* [[Sushmita Sen]] in item number "[[Shakalaka Baby]]"
{{colend}}
 
==Production==
Following the success of ''[[Jeans (film)|Jeans]]'' (1998), Shankar chose to make a political action film, which would later become ''Mudhalvan''.<ref name="malathi rangarajan"/> The idea for the story was inspired by Indian actor [[Sivaji Ganesan]] being named the honorary mayor of [[Niagara Falls, New York]] for one day during his visit to the United States.<ref name="The Penguin-Landmark Quiz Book"/> The lead role was initially written with [[Rajinikanth]] in mind, but he was unwilling to star in the film.<ref name="The Times of India"/> [[Vijay (actor)|Vijay]] was also considered by Shankar for the role, though the actor turned the offer down.<ref name="Sify"/><ref name="Shankar connects with fans"/><ref name="indiaglitz.com"/> Shankar revealed that he even approached [[Kamal Haasan]] for the film, but he was doing ''[[Hey Ram]]'' at that time.<ref name="Sudhir Srinivasan"/>{{Sfn|Dhananjayan|2011|page=211}} [[Arjun Sarja|Arjun]], who had previously collaborated with Shankar in ''[[Gentleman (1993 film)|Gentleman]]'' (1993), was willing to offer bulk schedule dates for the film and was subsequently signed on.{{Sfn|Dhananjayan|2011|page=211}}<ref name="Minnoviyam Star Tracks"/>
 
Shankar noted that he was interested in casting [[Meena (actress)|Meena]] in the leading role, but he opted against doing so as the actress was working with Arjun in another film in the same period, ''[[Rhythm (2000 film)|Rhythm]]'' (2000).<ref name="Shanker"/><ref name="web.archive.org"/> Subsequently, [[Manisha Koirala]], who worked with Shankar in ''[[Indian (1996 film)|Indian]]'', was selected to play Arjun's heroine. [[Raghuvaran]] was signed to play the chief antagonist in the film, while [[Vadivelu]] and [[Manivannan]] were also chosen to play other characters. Despite reports that [[Shilpa Shetty]] was added to the cast in February 1999, it was later clarified to be untrue.<ref name="Do not disturb"/> [[Laila Mehdin|Laila]], who had made her acting debut earlier in the year with ''[[Kallazhagar]]'', was signed on to portray the role planned with Shetty instead.<ref name="chandrag.tripod.com"/> Originally, her role was supposed to feature throughout the film, but Shankar shortened her character, owing to her call sheet problems.{{Sfn|Dhananjayan|2011|page=211}} Renowned [[muralist]] Natanam and [[Kalairani]] were cast as Arjun's parents.<ref name="Muralist Natanam honoured"/><ref name="Magic of metal"/><ref name="Power-packed performer"/> [[S. Sashikanth]], who went on to produce films like ''[[Thamizh Padam]]'' (2010) and ''[[Kaaviya Thalaivan (2014 film)|Kaaviya Thalaivan]]'' (2014), and K. R. Mathivaanan, who directed ''[[Aridhu Aridhu]]'' (2010), worked as assistant directors.<ref name="Sudhish Kamath"/><ref name="nikhil raghavan"/>
 
The film was jointly launched by [[S.Shankar]] and his co director [[R. Madhesh]] in October 1998 at an event attended by actors and technicians from the Tamil film industry, with actors Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan being the special invitees.<ref name="Tamil Movie News!"/> Production continued for several months, with reports suggesting that the film was delayed due to Manisha Koirala's unavailability though Shankar later stressed the production work demanded such delay. Parts of the film were also shot in [[Bikaner]], [[Rajasthan]] while the team also shot extensively in rural [[Tamil Nadu]].<ref name="Film maker with a Midas touch"/> The film's cinematographer later noted that the scenes involving crowds shot on [[Anna Salai]], [[Chennai]] were among the hardest and most satisfying scenes he had worked on.<ref name="behindwoods.com"/> The song "[[Shakalaka Baby]]" was the last song to be shot, with [[Sushmita Sen]] selected to feature in a special appearance for the song.<ref name="Gentleman are back"/><ref name="Frank and forthright"/><ref name="ReferenceA"/> Stunt master [[Peter Hein]] revealed that he worked as a body double for Arjun in the scene where he had to run nude on the streets.<ref name="Living on the edge"/>
 
==Themes and influences==
 
The film dealt with the theme of a television cameraman who is forced to take over the duty of Chief Minister for one day. It also dealt with the concept of opportunities for educated people in politics and demonstrated it is possible to bring change in the country. The film's basic idea was inspired from [[Nixon interviews|Nixon-Frost interviews]] which were broadcast in 1977.{{Sfn|Dhananjayan|2011|page=210}}
 
==Music==
 
{{Infobox album
| name        = Mudhalvan
| type        = [[soundtrack]]
| artist      = [[A. R. Rahman]]
| cover        =
| alt          =
| released    = 1999
| recorded    = [[Panchathan Record Inn]], [[Chennai]]
| venue        =
| studio      =
| genre        = [[Feature film soundtrack]]
| length      =
| language    =
| label        = Five Star Audio<br>Star Music<br>Hit Musics
| producer    = A. R. Rahman
| prev_title  = [[Thakshak]]
| prev_year    = 1999
| next_title  = [[Taj Mahal (2000 film)|Taj Mahal]]
| next_year    = 1999
}}
}}
The soundtrack features six songs composed by [[A. R. Rahman]] and lyrics penned by [[Vairamuthu]]. The song "Shakalaka Baby" was re-edited by A. R. Rahman and featured on the international musical production ''[[Bombay Dreams]]'', which ran in [[Europe]] and [[North America]] from 2002 to 2005. This version was also released as a single. A [[Standard Chinese|Mandarin Chinese]] remix of the track sung by [[Singapore]]an singer [[Kelly Poon]] was featured in her album ''[[In the Heart of the World|In the Heart Of The World]]'' (2007).{{Sfn|Dhananjayan|2011|page=211}}
The release of the soundtrack was held at [[Sathyam cinemas|Sathyam Cinemas]], [[Chennai]], on 31 October 1999 with two songs from the film being performed on stage. The special guests for the event were actor [[Kamal Haasan]] and actress [[Sushmita Sen]], who performed an [[item number]] in the film. The event was well attended by the cast and the crew of the film, with other guests including cinematographer [[P. C. Sriram]], actress [[Sarika]], and actor [[Suriya]].<ref name="First Shot"/>
The soundtrack was a success, and the initial day audio sale alone was more than three lakh units.<ref name="M Suganth"/> The song "Azhagana Rakshasiye" is based on Rithigowla Raga.<ref name="CHARULATHA MANI"/>


{{tracklist
{{Track listing
| headline = Track listing
| headline = Telugu
| all_lyrics = [[A. M. Ratnam]]
| extra_column = Singer(s)
| extra_column = Singer(s)
| all_music = [[A. R. Rahman]]
| title1 = Nelluri Nerajana
| all_lyrics = [[Vairamuthu]]
| title1 = Kurukku Chiruththavale
| extra1 = [[Hariharan (singer)|Hariharan]],  [[Mahalakshmi Iyer]]
| extra1 = [[Hariharan (singer)|Hariharan]],  [[Mahalakshmi Iyer]]
| length1 = 6:42
| length1 = 6:44
| title2 = Mudhalvanae
| title2 = Magadheera
| extra2 = [[Shankar Mahadevan]], [[Mano (singer)|Mano]], [[Srinivas (singer)|Srinivas]], [[S. Janaki]]
| extra2 = [[S. Janaki]], [[Shankar Mahadevan]]
| length2 = 5:29
| length2 = 6:41
| title3 = Uppu Karuvadu
| title3 = Utti Meeda Koodu
| extra3 = Shankar Mahadevan, [[Kavita Krishnamurthy]]
| extra3 = Shankar Mahadevan, [[Kavita Krishnamurthy]]
| length3 = 5:38
| length3 = 5:41
| title4 = Azhagana Ratchashiyae
| title4 = Andala Rakshasive
| extra4 = [[S. P. Balasubrahmanyam]], [[Harini (singer)|Harini]], [[G. V. Prakash Kumar]]
| extra4 = [[S. P. Balasubrahmanyam]], [[Harini (singer)|Harini]]
| length4 = 6:11
| length4 = 6:13
| title5 = Ulundhu Vithakkaiyilae
| title5 = Eruvaka
| extra5 = Srinivas, [[Swarnalatha]], Hariharan, Mahalakshmi Iyer
| extra5 = [[Swarnalatha]], [[Srinivas (singer)|Srinivas]]
| length5 = 6:05
| length5 = 6:05
| title6 = [[Shakalaka Baby]]
| title6 = Shakalaka Baby
| extra6 = [[Vasundhara Das]], [[Pravin Mani]]
| extra6 = [[Vasundhara Das]], [[Pravin Mani]], [[Devan Ekambaram]]
| length6 = 5:23
| length6 = 5:38
| total_length =
}}
}}


==Release==
== Release ==
The film's release prints were {{Convert|4876|m|ft|abbr=on}} long.{{Sfn|Dhananjayan|2011|page=210}} Upon release on 7 November 1999, this high-budget production won positive reviews and was successful at the box office. The film was then dubbed and released in [[Cinema of Andhra Pradesh|Telugu]] as ''[[Oke Okkadu]]'' and later remade in [[Bollywood|Hindi]] as ''[[Nayak (2001 Hindi film)|Nayak]]'' starring [[Anil Kapoor]].<ref name="celebrates 100 days">{{cite web|url=http://www.pvv.ntnu.no/~kailasan/mudhalvan/mudhalvan100day.htm |title=Mudhalvan - the mega hit - celebrates 100 days |publisher=ntnu.no |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719224729/http://www.pvv.ntnu.no/~kailasan/mudhalvan/mudhalvan100day.htm |archive-date=19 July 2011 }}</ref> The film went on to run for over one hundred days in cinemas with an event being held at Kamaraj Hall on 25 February 2000 to mark one hundred days since release. The event, similar to the launch, attracted several people from the film industry with Kamal Haasan, once again, being the chief guest of the event.<ref name="celebrates 100 days" />
The film's release prints were {{Convert|4876|m|ft|abbr=on}} long.{{Sfn|Dhananjayan|2011|page=210}} The film was released on 7 November 1999 while the Telugu dubbed version, ''Oke Okkadu'' ({{translation}}: ''Only One'') released on 9 November 1999 which was also a blockbuster.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Jeevi |title=Oke Okkadu&nbsp;– A review |url=http://www.idlebrain.com/movie/archive/mr-oke.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220526083039/http://www.idlebrain.com/movie/archive/mr-oke.html |archive-date=26 May 2022 |access-date=10 July 2022 |website=[[Idlebrain.com]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=24 July 2019 |title=20 Glorious Years for Sri Venkateswara Creations |url=https://www.telugu360.com/20-glorious-years-for-sri-venkateshwara-creations/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220710062433/https://www.telugu360.com/20-glorious-years-for-sri-venkateshwara-creations/ |archive-date=10 July 2022 |access-date=10 July 2022 |website=Telugu360}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=25 January 2021 |title=Shristi becomes one-day CM of Uttarakhand! |url=https://www.thehansindia.com/news/national/shristi-becomes-one-day-cm-of-uttarakhand-668477 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220501064958/https://www.thehansindia.com/news/national/shristi-becomes-one-day-cm-of-uttarakhand-668477 |archive-date=1 May 2022 |access-date=1 May 2022 |website=[[The Hans India]]}}</ref> Upon release, the film won positive reviews and was successful at the box office. It was later remade in [[Hindi]] as ''[[Nayak (2001 Hindi film)|Nayak]]''.<ref name="celebrates 100 days">{{Cite web |title=Mudhalvan&nbsp;– the mega hit&nbsp;– celebrates 100 days |url=http://www.pvv.ntnu.no/~kailasan/mudhalvan/mudhalvan100day.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719224729/http://www.pvv.ntnu.no/~kailasan/mudhalvan/mudhalvan100day.htm |archive-date=19 July 2011 |access-date=15 March 2011 |website=pvv.ntnu.no}}</ref> The film went on to run for over one hundred days in cinemas with an event being held at Kamaraj Hall on 25 February 2000 to mark one hundred days since release. The event, similar to the launch, attracted several people from the film industry with Kamal Haasan, once again, being the chief guest of the event.<ref name="celebrates 100 days" />


== Reception ==
== Reception ==
On 21 November 1999, ''Ananda Vikatan'' in its review gave 43 marks and appreciated the film stating that: "One can see Shankar's grandeur in the way he presented a social problem magnificently. Shankar has approached a serious social issue with usual entertainment elements".{{Sfn|Dhananjayan|2011|page=211}} ''[[The Hindu]]'' said "Shankar scores again". In regard to the lead performances, Arjun is described as having "acquitted himself with aplomb", while Manisha's performance was criticized with claims that she "lacks the freshness that one always associates her with".<ref name="Mudhalvan"/> The critic also referred to Shankar's direction and Sujatha's dialogs as a "positive", while drawing praise to the videos of the songs describing that "every song and dance sequence seems a magnum opus by itself". ''[[The New Indian Express]]'' described the film as "absorbing" and praised certain scenes, although it criticized the videos of the songs as a "fiasco".<ref name="Absorbing film"/> ''Indiaglitz'' wrote: "Mudhalvan spoke about current affairs in India. With an absorbing screenplay and conveying the message of change in the political system, the film was a runaway hit."
On 21 November 1999, ''[[Ananda Vikatan]]'' in its review gave 43 marks and appreciated the film stating that: "One can see Shankar's grandeur in the way he presented a social problem magnificently. Shankar has approached a serious social issue with usual entertainment elements".{{Sfn|Dhananjayan|2011|page=211}} ''[[The Hindu]]'' said "Shankar scores again". In regard to the lead performances, Arjun is described as having "acquitted himself with aplomb", while Manisha's performance was criticised with claims that she "lacks the freshness that one always associates her with". The critic also referred to Shankar's direction and Sujatha's dialogues as a "positive", while drawing praise to the videos of the songs describing that "every song and dance sequence seems a magnum opus by itself".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rangarajan |first=Malathi |date=12 November 1999 |title=Mudhalvan |url=http://www.indiaserver.com/thehindu/1999/11/12/stories/09120222.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010413133853/http://www.indiaserver.com/thehindu/1999/11/12/stories/09120222.htm |archive-date=13 April 2001 |access-date=3 August 2024 |website=[[The Hindu]]}}</ref> ''[[The New Indian Express]]'' described the film as "absorbing" and praised certain scenes, although it criticised the videos of the songs as a "fiasco".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ulaganathan |first=G. |date=14 November 1999 |title=Absorbing film |url=http://www.cscsarchive.org:8081/MediaArchive/art.nsf/(docid)/1B2DE58D8F77D2F165256941003DC8E8 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110725212302/http://www.cscsarchive.org:8081/MediaArchive/art.nsf/%28docid%29/1B2DE58D8F77D2F165256941003DC8E8 |archive-date=25 July 2011 |access-date=15 March 2011 |website=[[The New Indian Express]]}}</ref> Aurangazeb of ''[[Kalki (magazine)|Kalki]]'' praised the screenplay and certain scenes which make impact but panned the visual effects and felt the film has a documentary feel which is both positive and negative.<ref>{{Cite magazine |last=ஒளரங்கசீப் |date=28 November 1999 |title=முதல்வன் |url=https://archive.org/details/kalki1999-11-28/page/32/mode/2up |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230501114251/https://archive.org/details/kalki1999-11-28/page/32/mode/2up |archive-date=1 May 2023 |access-date=17 June 2023 |magazine=[[Kalki (magazine)|Kalki]] |pages=32–33 |language=ta |via=[[Internet Archive]]}}</ref>


==Awards==
== Accolades ==
{{Unreferenced section|date=April 2020}}
{| class="wikitable"
!Award
!Category
!Recipient
!{{Abbr|Ref.|References}}
|-
| rowspan="3" |[[47th Filmfare Awards South]]
|[[Filmfare Award for Best Music Director – Tamil|Filmfare Best Music Director Award]]
|[[A. R. Rahman]]
| rowspan="3" style="text-align:center;" |<ref>{{Cite news |last=Ashok Kumar |first=S. R. |date=15 April 2000 |title=Star-spangled show on cards |url=http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/2000/04/15/stories/09150651.htm |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060715231701/http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/2000/04/15/stories/09150651.htm |archive-date=15 July 2006 |access-date=16 October 2020 |work=[[The Hindu]]}}</ref><br /><ref>{{Cite news |date=26 April 2000 |title=Southern Filmfare awards presented at glittering ceremony |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/southern-filmfare-awards-presented-at-glittering-ceremony/articleshow/883089902.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240927130923/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/southern-filmfare-awards-presented-at-glittering-ceremony/articleshow/883089902.cms |archive-date=27 September 2024 |access-date=27 September 2024 |work=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref>
|-
|[[Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer – Tamil]]
|[[Vasundhara Das]] for "Shakalaka Baby"
|-
|[[Filmfare Award for Best Choreography – South]]
|[[Chinni Prakash]]
|-
|[[Cinema Express Awards]]
|Best Villain
|[[Raghuvaran]]
| style="text-align:center;" |<ref>{{Cite web |title=Recently |url=http://cinematoday2.itgo.com/4Hot%20News%20Just%20for%20U4.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120324015140/http://cinematoday2.itgo.com/4Hot%20News%20Just%20for%20U4.htm |archive-date=24 March 2012 |access-date=27 September 2024 |website=Cinematoday2.itgo.com}}</ref>
|-
| rowspan="6" | Dinakaran Film Awards
|Best Director
|S. Shankar
|style="text-align:center;" rowspan="6" | <ref>{{Cite web |title=Awards: "Dinakaran Cinema Awards"--1999 |url=http://www.dinakaran.com/cinema/english/awards/28-1.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080625100834/http://www.dinakaran.com/cinema/english/awards/28-1.htm |archive-date=25 June 2008 |website=[[Dinakaran]] |access-date=16 September 2024 }}</ref>
|-
|Best Music Director
|A. R. Rahman
|-
|Best Female Playback Singer
|S. Janaki
|-
|Best Villain Actor
|Raghuvaran
|-
|Best Dialogue Writer
|Sujatha
|-
|Best Stunt Director
|Kanal Kannan
|-
|[[Tamil Nadu State Film Awards]]
|[[Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Villain|Best Villain]]
|Raghuvaran
| style="text-align:center;" |<ref>{{Cite web |date=29 December 2000 |title=Awards: Tamilnadu Government Announces Cinema State Awards -1999 |url=http://www.dinakaran.com/cinema/english/awards/29-12-00/state.htm |url-status=dead |website=[[Dinakaran]] |access-date=27 September 2024 |archive-date=10 February 2001 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010210034542/http://www.dinakaran.com/cinema/english/awards/29-12-00/state.htm }}</ref>
|}


*[[Filmfare Best Music Director Award (Tamil)|Filmfare Best Music Director Award]] - [[A. R. Rahman]]
== In popular culture ==
*[[Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer – Tamil]] - [[Vasundhara Das]] for "[[Shakalaka Baby]]"
Songs from the film's soundtrack inspired a number of Tamil film titles. [[Rama Narayanan]] directed a film titled ''Shakalaka Baby'' in 2002.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Shakalaka Baby |url=http://cinematoday2.itgo.com/Shakalaka%20Baby.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161220183606/http://cinematoday2.itgo.com/Shakalaka%20Baby.htm |archive-date=20 December 2016 |access-date=9 December 2016 |website=cinematoday2.itgo.com}}</ref> A film titled ''Lukku Vida Thonalaiyaa'', a line from the song "Shakalaka Baby", also began production in 2002 but was not released.<ref>{{Cite web |date=1 February 2002 |title="Lukku Vida Thonalaiyaa"! |url=http://www.dinakaran.com/cinema/english/cinenews/2002/01-2-02.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041029193710/http://www.dinakaran.com/cinema/english/cinenews/2002/01-2-02.html |archive-date=29 October 2004 |access-date=21 November 2020 |website=[[Dinakaran]]}}</ref> A dialogue from Mudhalvan, "Sushma, saamaan nikalo" inspired the title of the song "Saroja Saman Nikalo" from ''[[Chennai 600028]]'' (2007).<ref>{{Cite news |date=2020-04-01 |title=Venkat Prabhu on Saroja Saman Nikalo song from Chennai 600028 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/venkat-prabhu-on-saroja-saman-nikalo-song-from-chennai-600028/articleshow/74928139.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201230063716/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/venkat-prabhu-on-saroja-saman-nikalo-song-from-chennai-600028/articleshow/74928139.cms |archive-date=30 December 2020 |access-date=2024-10-31 |work=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref>
*[[Filmfare Award for Best Dance Choreographer - South]] - [[Chinni Prakash]]
*[[Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Actor]] - [[Arjun Sarja]]
*[[Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Villain]] - [[Raghuvaran]]
*[[Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Music Director]] - A. R. Rahman
* Nominated - [[Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Comedian]] - [[Vadivelu]]
* Nominated - [[Filmfare Best Actor Award (Tamil)|Filmfare Award for Best Actor]] - Arjun Sarja


==Legacy==
The scenes, songs and dialogues from the film have been parodied in ''[[Budget Padmanabhan]]'' (2000),<ref>{{Cite AV media |title=Budget Padmanabhan |type=motion picture |language=ta |publisher=KRG Film International |year=2000 |time=1:40:28 to 1:40:43 |time-caption=From}}</ref> ''[[Kandha Kadamba Kathir Vela]]'' (2000),<ref>{{Cite AV media |title=Kandha Kadamba Kathir Vela |type=motion picture |language=Ta |publisher=Sri Thenandal Films |year=2000 |time=45:21 to 45:29 |time-caption=From}}</ref> ''[[Kanna Unnai Thedukiren]]'' (2001),<ref>{{Cite AV media |title=Kanna Unnai Thedukiren |type=motion picture |language=Ta |publisher=Arun Movie Makers and Enterprises |year=2001}}{{time needed|date=March 2024}}</ref> ''[[Run (2002 film)|Run]]'' (2002),<ref>{{Cite AV media |title=Run |type=motion picture |language=ta |publisher=Sri Surya Movies |year=2002 |time=1:28:35 to 1:28:38 |time-caption=From}}</ref> ''[[Dubai Seenu]]'' (2007),<ref>{{Cite AV media |title=Dubai Seenu |type=motion picture |language=te |publisher=Universal Media |year=2007 |time=2:08:33 to 2:09:00 |time-caption=From}}</ref> ''[[Sivaji: The Boss]]'' (2007),<ref>{{Cite AV media |title=Sivaji: The Boss |type=motion picture |language=Ta |publisher=[[AVM Productions]] |year=2007 |time=1:12:07 to 1:12:10 |time-caption=From}}</ref> ''[[Singakutty]]'' (2008),<ref>{{Cite AV media |title=Singakutty |type=motion picture |language=ta |publisher=Tamil Screens |year=2008}}{{time needed|date=March 2024}}</ref> and ''Kaalaippani'' (2008).<ref>{{Cite AV media |title=Kaalai Pani |type=motion picture |language=Ta |publisher=Pasumpon Films |year=2008}}{{time needed|date=March 2024}}</ref> The film has also been spoofed in [[Star Vijay]]'s ''[[Lollu Sabha]]'' with the same title with [[Santhanam (actor)|Santhanam]] as the main character.<ref>{{Cite news |last=S |first=Srivatsan |date=8 April 2020 |title=The rise and fall of 'Lollu Sabha': Director Rambala on the untold story |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/the-story-behind-lollu-sabha/article31289313.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231113060538/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/the-story-behind-lollu-sabha/article31289313.ece |archive-date=13 November 2023 |access-date=15 March 2024 |work=[[The Hindu]] |language=en}}</ref> In 2017 film ''[[Kavan (film)|Kavan]]'', the interview scene was inspired from this film. ''Kavan'' was directed by [[K. V. Anand]], who was the cinematographer of ''Mudhalvan''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Menon |first=Vishal |date=1 April 2017 |title=Kavan: reality bites |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/reviews/kavan-reality-bites/article17756123.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170401072113/http://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/reviews/kavan-reality-bites/article17756123.ece |archive-date=1 April 2017 |access-date=9 May 2022 |website=[[The Hindu]]}}</ref>


The scene where a crowd gathers around the protagonist's house to persuade him to contest elections was included by ''Behindwoods.com'' in their list of "Top 20 Mass Scenes".<ref name="9. Mudhalvan - Top 20 Mass Scenes"/>
== See also ==
* [[Servant of the People (2015 TV series)|''Servant of the People'' (2015 TV series)]] (2015–2019), Ukrainian comedy television series with similar concept<ref>{{Cite news |date=22 February 2022 |title=Will a stand-up comedian save Ukraine and the world from World War III? |url=https://nhpnews.com/will-a-stand-up-comedian-save-ukraine-and-the-world-from-world-war-iii/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220225170246/https://nhpnews.com/will-a-stand-up-comedian-save-ukraine-and-the-world-from-world-war-iii/ |archive-date=25 February 2022 |access-date=25 February 2022 |work=NHP News |location=India}}</ref>


===Popular culture===
== References ==
Songs from the film's soundtrack inspired a number of Tamil film titles. [[Rama Narayanan]] directed a film titled ''[[Shakalaka Baby (film)|Shakalaka Baby]]'' in 2002, while [[Radha Mohan]] made ''[[Uppu Karuvaadu]]'' in 2015. A film titled ''Lukku Vida Thonalaiyaa'', a line from the song "Shakalaka Baby", also began production in 2002 but was not released.<ref name="01-2-02"/>
{{Reflist}}


The scenes, songs and dialogues from the film has been parodied in ''[[Budget Padmanabhan]]'' (2000),<ref name="ReferenceB"/> ''[[Kandha Kadamba Kathir Vela]]'' (2000),<ref name="ReferenceC"/> ''[[Kanna Unnai Thedukiren]]'' (2001),<ref name="youtube.com"/> ''[[Run (2002 film)|Run]]'' (2002),<ref name="ReferenceD"/> ''[[Dubai Seenu]]'' (2007),<ref name="ReferenceE"/> ''[[Sivaji (film)|Sivaji]]'' (2007),<ref name="ReferenceF"/> ''[[Singakutty]]'' (2008),<ref name="Singakutty Tamil Movie - Vivek Mudh"/> and ''[[Kaalaippani]]'' (2008)<ref name="Kaalai Pani Tamil Movie - Mudhalvan"/>
== Bibliography ==
*{{Cite book |last=Dhananjayan |first=G. |title=The Best of Tamil Cinema, 1931 to 2010: 1931–1976 |publisher=Galatta Media |year=2011 |isbn=978-81-921043-0-0 |author-link=G. Dhananjayan}}


==Notes==
== External links ==
 
* {{IMDb title}}
{{Reflist|group=lower-alpha}}
* {{Rotten Tomatoes}}
 
==References==
 
{{Reflist|2}}
 
==External links==
* {{IMDb title|0220656|Mudhalvan}}
 
==Bibliography==
 
*{{cite book|last1=Dhananjayan|first1= G.|author-link=G. Dhananjayan|title=The Best of Tamil Cinema, 1931 to 2010: 1931–1976|year=2011|publisher=Galatta Media|isbn=978-81-921043-0-0}}


{{S. Shankar}}
{{S. Shankar}}
{{FilmfareAwardBestTamilMovie}}
{{Filmfare Award for Best Film – Tamil}}
{{A. R. Rahman}}
{{A. R. Rahman}}
{{Sujatha}}
{{Authority control}}
{{Authority control}}


[[Category:1999 Indian films]]
[[Category:1990s political action films]]
[[Category:1990s political satire films]]
[[Category:1990s political thriller films]]
[[Category:1999 Tamil-language films]]
[[Category:1999 films]]
[[Category:1999 films]]
[[Category:Indian films]]
[[Category:Fictional portrayals of the Tamil Nadu Police]]
[[Category:Tamil-language films]]
[[Category:Indian political drama films]]
[[Category:Indian action drama films]]
[[Category:Indian political thriller films]]
[[Category:Political action films]]
[[Category:Films about corruption in India]]
[[Category:Films about corruption in India]]
[[Category:Journalism adapted into films]]
[[Category:Films about elections]]
[[Category:Films about journalists]]
[[Category:Films about journalists]]
[[Category:Tamil films remade in other languages]]
[[Category:Films about mass media people]]
[[Category:1990s Tamil-language films]]
[[Category:Films about politicians]]
[[Category:Films about television people]]
[[Category:Films about mass media in India]]
[[Category:Films directed by S. Shankar]]
[[Category:Films scored by A. R. Rahman]]
[[Category:Films scored by A. R. Rahman]]
[[Category:Films directed by S. Shankar]]
[[Category:Films set in Chennai]]
[[Category:Films shot in Chalakudy]]
[[Category:Films shot in Chennai]]
[[Category:Films shot in Rajasthan]]
[[Category:Films shot in Rajasthan]]
[[Category:Films featuring an item number]]
[[Category:Films shot in Tamil Nadu]]
[[Category:Films about elections]]
[[Category:Films shot in Thrissur]]
[[Category:Fictional portrayals of the Tamil Nadu Police]]
[[Category:Indian political action films]]
[[Category:1990s action drama films]]
[[Category:Indian political satire films]] <!-- https://www.langcen.cam.ac.uk/resources/langt/data/tm_117.html -->
[[Category:1990s political thriller films]]
[[Category:Indian political thriller films]] <!-- https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/why-rajinikanth-and-vijay-turned-down-mudhalvan-on-tuesday-trivia-1839145-2021-08-10 -->
[[Category:Tamil films remade in other languages]]
[[Category:Tamil-language Indian films]]

Latest revision as of 20:17, 16 March 2026

Mudhalvan
File:Mudhalvan.jpg
Poster
Directed byShankar
Produced byS. Shankar
R. Madhesh
Screenplay byShankar
Story byShankar
Dialogues by
StarringArjun
Manisha Koirala
Raghuvaran
Music byA. R. Rahman
CinematographyK. V. Anand
Edited byB. Lenin
V. T. Vijayan
Production
company
Distributed byS Films
Release date
  • 7 November 1999 (1999-11-07)
Running time
171 minutes
CountryIndia
LanguageTamil

Mudhalvan (transl. Chief Minister) is a 1999 Indian Tamil-language political action film co-produced, co-written and directed by Shankar. The film stars Arjun, Manisha Koirala, and Raghuvaran in lead roles, while Vadivelu and Manivannan appear in supporting roles. The film featured an award-winning soundtrack composed by A. R. Rahman, cinematography by K. V. Anand, and dialogue by Sujatha.[1] Many members of the DMK government of Tamil Nadu (which was the ruling party at that time) believed that the antagonist was modelled on M. Karunanidhi, the CM & Supreme Leader of the DMK. Subsequently, the film received release issues and oppressive pressure from the DMK.[2]

The film revolves around an ambitious TV journalist, Pugazhendi, who gets his first interview with the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. Pugazh asks controversial questions regarding the Chief Minister's inactions, to which the CM challenges him to face his unresolved issues by becoming his replacement CM for a day. After initially rejecting the offer, Pugazh agrees and manages to implement immense and effective changes to the government, to the point where state voters eventually elect him as their new Chief Minister. The subsequent unpopularity and jealousy that the old Chief Minister goes through results in him taking revenge on Pugazh, and how he is stopped forms the crux of the story.

The film was released on 7 November 1999, as a Diwali release. Within days of the release of the film, Madurai had a high number of pirated videos and cable operators requested with airing the film multiple times on their channels.[2] Despite opposition from the DMK government & its associated party, the film received critical acclaim and was a major commercial success, becoming the second highest-grossing Tamil film of 1999. The film ran for over 100 days in theatres and won awards on a regional scale. The film was later remade in Hindi as Nayak: The Real Hero (2001) by the same director.

Plot[edit | edit source]

N. Pugazhendi "Pugazh" is a news reporter in Chennai. One day, a riot occurs between students and bus drivers in the city. The Chief Minister of the state, Aranganathar, tells the police not to arrest the protesters as they belong to his community and political party, in a conversation recorded on video by Pugazh.

Pugazh also meets Thenmozhi and falls for her honesty and bravery, but her father does not accept his marriage proposal as he disapproves of his daughter marrying someone who is not a government employee.

Some days later, Pugazh interviews Aranganathar on television and confronts him for various actions by his party as well as his choice of inaction at the riot. Aranganathar claims that Pugazh does not understand the pressures a Chief Minister faces and challenges him to act in the post for a day, which Pugazh accepts.

In his allotted 24 hours, Pugazh takes action to reduce corruption and increase welfare in Tamil Nadu, assisted by an honest government secretary called Mayakrishnan. Pugazh's final action of the day is to bring corruption charges against the ruling party; Aranganathar is arrested but is bailed out by the attorney general. Upon his release, Aranganathar sends goons to kill Pugazh, but he escapes with minor injuries.

Pugazh visits Pooncholai and is applauded by the villagers before spending his day with Thenmozhi in peace. Meanwhile, Aranganathar's public image is tarnished, and the coalition parties refuse to support his reinstatement, resulting in the dissolution of the legislature, and precipitating a general election. There is enormous public support for Pugazh to become Chief Minister, but he initially refuses due to his desire to lead a normal life. Mayakrishnan eventually convinces Pugazh sacrifice his comfort and run for election, and he wins a huge majority and all legislature seats.

Pugazh gets to work developing the state and improving welfare standards while Aranganathar and other politicians' anger increases, culminating in them hiring a hitman to kill Pugazh. Pugazh sneaks away to visit Thenmozhi and is almost caught by the hitman. Thenmozhi's father tells Pugazh that he must choose between the Chief Minister job and a relationship with his daughter. Pugazh's parents agree to speak to Thenmozhi's father to attempt to convince him otherwise.

Mayakrishnan phones Pugazh to inform him that a bomb has been planted in his home just as the bomb explodes, killing Pugazh's parents. Pugazh travels to confront Aranganathar and learns of the latter's plan to plant bombs across Chennai. Pugazh and Mayakrishnan send for a bomb squad, who manage to reach and defuse all except one of the bombs.

Aranganathar blames Pugazh for the incident, claiming it to be a ploy to win public support. Pugazh invites Aranganathar to his office. While they talk, Pugazh pulls a gun and shoots himself, but does not sustain any major injuries. He then throws the gun to Aranganathar. Security guards hear the gunfire and enter to see Aranganathar pointing the gun at Pugazh. The security guards shoot and kill Aranganathar, who recalls the initial television interview in his dying moments.

Pugazh is conflicted, glad to continue his mission of improving the state but guilty for his part in Aranganathar's death and feeling forced to play the game of politics. He is comforted by Mayakrishnan, who insists he only played the game for a deserving cause and that Aranganathar deserved his fate. Thenmozhi's father finally appreciates Pugazh's successes and agrees to the marriage. Pugazh's work leads to the people of Tamil Nadu enjoying a high level of development and freedom from violence and corruption.

Cast[edit | edit source]

Production[edit | edit source]

Following the success of Jeans (1998), S. Shankar chose to make a political action film, which would later become Mudhalvan.[4]

The lead role was initially written with Rajinikanth in mind, but he was unwilling to star in the film.[5] Vijay was also considered by Shankar for the role, though the actor turned the offer down.[6][7] Shankar revealed that he even approached Kamal Haasan for the film, but he was doing Hey Ram at that time.[8][9] Arjun, who had previously collaborated with Shankar in Gentleman (1993), was willing to offer bulk schedule dates for the film and was subsequently signed on.[9]

Shankar noted that he was interested in casting Meena as the lead actress, but opted against doing so as the actress was working with Arjun in another film in the same period, Rhythm (2000).[10][11] Subsequently, Manisha Koirala, who worked with Shankar in Indian, was selected to play that role. Raghuvaran was signed to play the chief antagonist in the film, while Vadivelu and Manivannan were also chosen to play other characters. Despite reports that Shilpa Shetty was added to the cast in February 1999, it was later clarified to be untrue.[12] Laila, who had made her acting debut earlier in the year with Kallazhagar, was signed on to appear in the film. Originally, her role was supposed to feature throughout the film, but Shankar shortened her character, owing to her call sheet problems.[9] Renowned muralist Natanam and Kalairani were cast as Arjun's parents.[13][14][15] S. Sashikanth, who went on to produce films like Tamizh Padam (2010) and Kaaviya Thalaivan (2014), and K. R. Mathivaanan, who directed Aridhu Aridhu (2010), worked as assistant directors.[16][17]

The film was jointly launched by S. Shankar and his co-director R. Madhesh in October 1998 at an event attended by actors and technicians from the Tamil film industry, with actors Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan being the special invitees.[18] Production continued for several months, with reports suggesting that the film was delayed due to Manisha Koirala's unavailability though Shankar later stressed the production work demanded such delay. Parts of the film were also shot in Bikaner, Rajasthan while the team also shot extensively in rural Tamil Nadu.[19] The film's cinematographer Anand later noted that the scenes involving crowds shot on Anna Salai, Chennai were among the hardest and most satisfying scenes he had worked on.[20] The song "Shakalaka Baby" was the last song to be shot, with Sushmita Sen selected to feature in a special appearance for the song.[21][22][23] Stunt master Peter Hein revealed that he worked as a body double for Arjun in the scene where he had to run nude on the streets.[24]

Themes and influences[edit | edit source]

The film dealt with the theme of a television cameraman who is forced to take over the duty of Chief Minister for one day. It also dealt with the concept of opportunities for educated people in politics and demonstrated it is possible to bring change in the country. The film's basic idea was inspired from Nixon-Frost interviews which were broadcast in 1977 and also inspired by Indian actor Sivaji Ganesan being named the honorary mayor of Niagara Falls, New York for one day during his visit to the United States.[25][26]

Soundtrack[edit | edit source]

Mudhalvan
Soundtrack album by
A. R. Rahman
Released31 October 1999
RecordedPanchathan Record Inn, Chennai
StudioPanchathan Studios, A.M Studios
Genrefeature film soundtrack
Length36:19
LanguageTamil
LabelFive Star audio
ProducerA. R. Rahman
A. R. Rahman chronology
Thakshak
(1999) 		Mudhalvan
(1999) 		Pukar
(2000)

The soundtrack features six songs composed by A. R. Rahman and lyrics penned by Vairamuthu, except Shakalaka Baby which Shankar wrote.[27][28] The song "Shakalaka Baby" was re-edited by A. R. Rahman and featured on the international musical production Bombay Dreams, which ran in Europe and North America from 2002 to 2005. This version was also released as a single. A Mandarin Chinese remix of the track sung by Singaporean singer Kelly Poon was featured in her album In the Heart Of The World (2007).[9]

The release of the soundtrack was held at Sathyam Cinemas, Chennai, on 31 October 1999 with two songs from the film being performed on stage. The special guests for the event were actor Kamal Haasan and actress Sushmita Sen, who performed an item number in the film. The event was well attended by the cast and the crew of the film, with other guests including cinematographer P. C. Sriram, actress Sarika, and actor Suriya.[29]

The soundtrack was a critical and commercial success; the initial day audio sale alone exceeded three lakh units.[30] The song "Azhagana Rakshasiye" is based on Rithigowla raga.[31]

All lyrics are written by Vairamuthu.

Tamil
No.TitleSinger(s)Length
1."Kurukku Chiruththavale"Hariharan, Mahalakshmi Iyer6:42
2."Mudhalvanae"Shankar Mahadevan, S. Janaki5:29
3."Uppu Karuvadu"Shankar Mahadevan, Kavita Krishnamurthy5:38
4."Azhagana Ratchashiyae"S. P. Balasubrahmanyam, Harini, G. V. Prakash Kumar6:11
5."Ulundhu Vithakkaiyilae"Srinivas, Swarnalatha, Hariharan, Mahalakshmi Iyer6:05
6."Shakalaka Baby"Vasundhara Das, Pravin Mani5:23
Total length:35:28

All lyrics are written by A. M. Ratnam.

Telugu
No.TitleSinger(s)Length
1."Nelluri Nerajana"Hariharan, Mahalakshmi Iyer6:44
2."Magadheera"S. Janaki, Shankar Mahadevan6:41
3."Utti Meeda Koodu"Shankar Mahadevan, Kavita Krishnamurthy5:41
4."Andala Rakshasive"S. P. Balasubrahmanyam, Harini6:13
5."Eruvaka"Swarnalatha, Srinivas6:05
6."Shakalaka Baby"Vasundhara Das, Pravin Mani, Devan Ekambaram5:38

Release[edit | edit source]

The film's release prints were 4,876 m (15,997 ft) long.[25] The film was released on 7 November 1999 while the Telugu dubbed version, Oke Okkadu (transl.: Only One) released on 9 November 1999 which was also a blockbuster.[32][33][34] Upon release, the film won positive reviews and was successful at the box office. It was later remade in Hindi as Nayak.[35] The film went on to run for over one hundred days in cinemas with an event being held at Kamaraj Hall on 25 February 2000 to mark one hundred days since release. The event, similar to the launch, attracted several people from the film industry with Kamal Haasan, once again, being the chief guest of the event.[35]

Reception[edit | edit source]

On 21 November 1999, Ananda Vikatan in its review gave 43 marks and appreciated the film stating that: "One can see Shankar's grandeur in the way he presented a social problem magnificently. Shankar has approached a serious social issue with usual entertainment elements".[9] The Hindu said "Shankar scores again". In regard to the lead performances, Arjun is described as having "acquitted himself with aplomb", while Manisha's performance was criticised with claims that she "lacks the freshness that one always associates her with". The critic also referred to Shankar's direction and Sujatha's dialogues as a "positive", while drawing praise to the videos of the songs describing that "every song and dance sequence seems a magnum opus by itself".[36] The New Indian Express described the film as "absorbing" and praised certain scenes, although it criticised the videos of the songs as a "fiasco".[37] Aurangazeb of Kalki praised the screenplay and certain scenes which make impact but panned the visual effects and felt the film has a documentary feel which is both positive and negative.[38]

Accolades[edit | edit source]

Award Category Recipient Ref.
47th Filmfare Awards South Filmfare Best Music Director Award A. R. Rahman [39]
[40]
Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer – Tamil Vasundhara Das for "Shakalaka Baby"
Filmfare Award for Best Choreography – South Chinni Prakash
Cinema Express Awards Best Villain Raghuvaran [41]
Dinakaran Film Awards Best Director S. Shankar [42]
Best Music Director A. R. Rahman
Best Female Playback Singer S. Janaki
Best Villain Actor Raghuvaran
Best Dialogue Writer Sujatha
Best Stunt Director Kanal Kannan
Tamil Nadu State Film Awards Best Villain Raghuvaran [43]

In popular culture[edit | edit source]

Songs from the film's soundtrack inspired a number of Tamil film titles. Rama Narayanan directed a film titled Shakalaka Baby in 2002.[44] A film titled Lukku Vida Thonalaiyaa, a line from the song "Shakalaka Baby", also began production in 2002 but was not released.[45] A dialogue from Mudhalvan, "Sushma, saamaan nikalo" inspired the title of the song "Saroja Saman Nikalo" from Chennai 600028 (2007).[46]

The scenes, songs and dialogues from the film have been parodied in Budget Padmanabhan (2000),[47] Kandha Kadamba Kathir Vela (2000),[48] Kanna Unnai Thedukiren (2001),[49] Run (2002),[50] Dubai Seenu (2007),[51] Sivaji: The Boss (2007),[52] Singakutty (2008),[53] and Kaalaippani (2008).[54] The film has also been spoofed in Star Vijay's Lollu Sabha with the same title with Santhanam as the main character.[55] In 2017 film Kavan, the interview scene was inspired from this film. Kavan was directed by K. V. Anand, who was the cinematographer of Mudhalvan.[56]

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ "Love makes the filmi world go round". Rediff.com. 4 November 1999. Archived from the original on 25 October 2012. Retrieved 15 March 2011.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 "The war within". Rediff.com. 4 November 1999. Archived from the original on 25 July 2021. Retrieved 22 October 2025.
  3. ↑ "ஹாலிவுட்டில் கலக்க இருக்கும் பிரபல தமிழ்ப்பட வில்லன்!". Kalki Online. 10 February 2023. Retrieved 4 May 2025.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: deprecated archival service (link)
  4. ↑ Rangarajan, Malathi (27 May 2012). "Maverick maker". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 15 January 2016. Retrieved 11 September 2015.
  5. ↑ "Rajinikanth was to do Shankar's 'Mudhalvan'". The Times of India. 7 September 2013. Archived from the original on 13 January 2015. Retrieved 11 September 2015.
  6. ↑ "Shankar is the Spielberg of Indian cinema: Vijay". Sify. 27 December 2011. Archived from the original on 5 March 2014. Retrieved 27 December 2013.
  7. ↑ Aishwarya, S. (11 February 2010). "Shankar connects with fans". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 22 June 2023. Retrieved 22 June 2023.
  8. ↑ Srinivasan, Sudhir (11 October 2014). "Shankar and I". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 15 January 2016. Retrieved 11 September 2015.
  9. ↑ 9.0 9.1 9.2 9.3 9.4 Dhananjayan 2011, p. 211.
  10. ↑ "Shanker". Sify. Archived from the original on 5 March 2014. Retrieved 27 December 2013.
  11. ↑ Prasad, Ayyappa. "A bundle of nerves, again!". Screen. Archived from the original on 18 November 1999. Retrieved 5 September 2020.
  12. ↑ Rajitha (12 February 1999). "Do not disturb". Rediff.com. Archived from the original on 15 February 2009. Retrieved 28 September 2008.
  13. ↑ "Muralist Natanam honoured". The New Indian Express. 14 May 2013. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 11 September 2015.
  14. ↑ "Magic of metal". The Hindu. 18 June 2001. Archived from the original on 15 January 2016. Retrieved 11 September 2015.
  15. ↑ "Power-packed performer". The Hindu. 11 January 2001. Archived from the original on 15 January 2016. Retrieved 11 September 2015.
  16. ↑ Kamath, Sudhish (2 March 2012). "Why Not?". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 15 January 2016. Retrieved 11 September 2015.
  17. ↑ Raghavan, Nikhil (26 December 2010). "Getting better". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 22 June 2023. Retrieved 22 June 2023.
  18. ↑ Sandya. "***Tamil Movie News***". Indolink. Archived from the original on 19 December 2014. Retrieved 15 March 2011.
  19. ↑ Reddy, T. Krithika (5 November 1999). "Film maker with a Midas touch". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 25 July 2011. Retrieved 15 March 2011.
  20. ↑ "Rajini and Vijay couldn't do it for unknown reasons, K.V.Anand". Behindwoods. 6 October 2013. Archived from the original on 27 December 2013. Retrieved 27 December 2013.
  21. ↑ "Gentleman are back". The Times of India. 29 October 1999. Archived from the original on 25 July 2011. Retrieved 15 March 2011.
  22. ↑ Venkatesh, Jyothi (28 April 2002). "Frank and forthright". Deccan Herald. Archived from the original on 25 July 2011. Retrieved 15 March 2011.
  23. ↑ "Interview: Director Shankar Speaks Out His Mind". Dinakaran. 1 March 2000. Archived from the original on 11 October 2000. Retrieved 12 January 2022.
  24. ↑ "Living on the edge". The Hindu. 15 April 2006. Archived from the original on 15 January 2016. Retrieved 11 September 2015.
  25. ↑ 25.0 25.1 Dhananjayan 2011, p. 210.
  26. ↑ "The Little-Known But Fascinating Connection Between Film Mudhalvan and Shivaji Ganesan". News18. 22 March 2022. Archived from the original on 11 July 2022. Retrieved 11 July 2022.
  27. ↑ "Mudhalvan / Jodi". AVDigital. Archived from the original on 6 February 2023. Retrieved 22 June 2023.
  28. ↑ "Mudhalvan (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)". Apple Music. 20 October 1999. Archived from the original on 22 June 2023. Retrieved 22 June 2023.
  29. ↑ MR (31 October 1999). "First Shot". The New Indian Express. Archived from the original on 25 July 2011. Retrieved 15 March 2011.
  30. ↑ Suganth, M (11 November 2011). "Audio CDs stay in tune with digital era". The Times of India. Retrieved 22 June 2023.{{cite news}}: CS1 maint: deprecated archival service (link)
  31. ↑ Mani, Charulatha (25 November 2011). "Riveting Ritigowla". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 15 January 2016. Retrieved 11 September 2015.
  32. ↑ Jeevi. "Oke Okkadu – A review". Idlebrain.com. Archived from the original on 26 May 2022. Retrieved 10 July 2022.
  33. ↑ "20 Glorious Years for Sri Venkateswara Creations". Telugu360. 24 July 2019. Archived from the original on 10 July 2022. Retrieved 10 July 2022.
  34. ↑ "Shristi becomes one-day CM of Uttarakhand!". The Hans India. 25 January 2021. Archived from the original on 1 May 2022. Retrieved 1 May 2022.
  35. ↑ 35.0 35.1 "Mudhalvan – the mega hit – celebrates 100 days". pvv.ntnu.no. Archived from the original on 19 July 2011. Retrieved 15 March 2011.
  36. ↑ Rangarajan, Malathi (12 November 1999). "Mudhalvan". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 13 April 2001. Retrieved 3 August 2024.
  37. ↑ Ulaganathan, G. (14 November 1999). "Absorbing film". The New Indian Express. Archived from the original on 25 July 2011. Retrieved 15 March 2011.
  38. ↑ ஒளரங்கசீப் (28 November 1999). "முதல்வன்". Kalki (in தமிழ்). pp. 32–33. Retrieved 17 June 2023 – via Internet Archive.{{cite magazine}}: CS1 maint: deprecated archival service (link)
  39. ↑ Ashok Kumar, S. R. (15 April 2000). "Star-spangled show on cards". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 15 July 2006. Retrieved 16 October 2020.
  40. ↑ "Southern Filmfare awards presented at glittering ceremony". The Times of India. 26 April 2000. Archived from the original on 27 September 2024. Retrieved 27 September 2024.
  41. ↑ "Recently". Cinematoday2.itgo.com. Archived from the original on 24 March 2012. Retrieved 27 September 2024.
  42. ↑ "Awards: "Dinakaran Cinema Awards"--1999". Dinakaran. Archived from the original on 25 June 2008. Retrieved 16 September 2024.
  43. ↑ "Awards: Tamilnadu Government Announces Cinema State Awards -1999". Dinakaran. 29 December 2000. Archived from the original on 10 February 2001. Retrieved 27 September 2024.
  44. ↑ "Shakalaka Baby". cinematoday2.itgo.com. Archived from the original on 20 December 2016. Retrieved 9 December 2016.
  45. ↑ ""Lukku Vida Thonalaiyaa"!". Dinakaran. 1 February 2002. Archived from the original on 29 October 2004. Retrieved 21 November 2020.
  46. ↑ "Venkat Prabhu on Saroja Saman Nikalo song from Chennai 600028". The Times of India. 1 April 2020. Archived from the original on 30 December 2020. Retrieved 31 October 2024.
  47. ↑ Budget Padmanabhan (motion picture) (in தமிழ்). KRG Film International. 2000. From 1:40:28 to 1:40:43.
  48. ↑ Kandha Kadamba Kathir Vela (motion picture) (in தமிழ்). Sri Thenandal Films. 2000. From 45:21 to 45:29.
  49. ↑ Kanna Unnai Thedukiren (motion picture) (in தமிழ்). Arun Movie Makers and Enterprises. 2001.[time needed]
  50. ↑ Run (motion picture) (in தமிழ்). Sri Surya Movies. 2002. From 1:28:35 to 1:28:38.
  51. ↑ Dubai Seenu (motion picture) (in తెలుగు). Universal Media. 2007. From 2:08:33 to 2:09:00.
  52. ↑ Sivaji: The Boss (motion picture) (in தமிழ்). AVM Productions. 2007. From 1:12:07 to 1:12:10.
  53. ↑ Singakutty (motion picture) (in தமிழ்). Tamil Screens. 2008.[time needed]
  54. ↑ Kaalai Pani (motion picture) (in தமிழ்). Pasumpon Films. 2008.[time needed]
  55. ↑ S, Srivatsan (8 April 2020). "The rise and fall of 'Lollu Sabha': Director Rambala on the untold story". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 13 November 2023. Retrieved 15 March 2024.
  56. ↑ Menon, Vishal (1 April 2017). "Kavan: reality bites". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 1 April 2017. Retrieved 9 May 2022.
  57. ↑ "Will a stand-up comedian save Ukraine and the world from World War III?". NHP News. India. 22 February 2022. Archived from the original on 25 February 2022. Retrieved 25 February 2022.

Bibliography[edit | edit source]

External links[edit | edit source]

Template:S. Shankar

Template:Sujatha

Retrieved from "https://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Mudhalvan&oldid=450095"
Discover more