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| director      = [[S. P. Muthuraman]]
| director      = [[S. P. Muthuraman]]
| writer        = A. L. Narayanan (dialogues)
| writer        = A. L. Narayanan (dialogues)
| producer      =
| starring      = [[Rajinikanth]]<br />[[Lakshmi (actress)|Lakshmi]]<br />[[Vishnuvardhan (actor)|Vishnuvardhan]]
| starring      = [[Rajinikanth]]<br />[[Lakshmi (actress)|Lakshmi]]<br />[[Vishnuvardhan (actor)|Vishnuvardhan]]
| cinematography = T. S. Vinayagam
| cinematography = T. S. Vinayagam
Line 19: Line 18:
| language      = Tamil
| language      = Tamil
}}
}}
'''''Sri Raghavendrar''''' is a 1985 [[Tamil language|Tamil]]-language [[Hindu mythological film]] directed by [[S. P. Muthuraman]] and was produced by [[Kavithalayaa Productions]]. The film stars [[Rajinikanth]], portraying the title character, in his 100th film. [[Lakshmi (actress)|Lakshmi]], [[Vishnuvardhan (actor)|Vishnuvardhan]], [[Delhi Ganesh]] and [[Nizhalgal Ravi]] play prominent roles. The film is based on the life of Hindu saint [[Raghavendra Tirtha]]. The soundtrack was composed by [[Ilaiyaraaja]] and lyrics were written by [[Vaali (poet)|Vaali]]. The dialogues for the film were written by A. L. Narayanan.
'''''Sri Raghavendrar''''' is a 1985 Indian [[Tamil language|Tamil]]-language Hindu historical film directed by [[S. P. Muthuraman]] and produced by [[Kavithalayaa Productions]]. The film is based on the life of Hindu saint [[Raghavendra Tirtha]].


The cinematography was handled by T. S. Vinayagam while the editing was handled by the duo R. Vittal and S. B. Mohan. The film was released on 1 September 1985 to positive reception with Rajinikanth's performance as a saint was widely praised. But the film failed at box office.
The film stars [[Rajinikanth]], portraying the title character, in his 100th film. [[Lakshmi (actress)|Lakshmi]], [[Vishnuvardhan (actor)|Vishnuvardhan]], [[Delhi Ganesh]] and [[Nizhalgal Ravi]] play prominent roles. The soundtrack was composed by [[Ilaiyaraaja]] and lyrics were written by [[Vaali (poet)|Vaali]]. The dialogue for the film was written by A. L. Narayanan. The cinematography was handled by T. S. Vinayagam, while the editing was done by duo R. Vittal and S. B. Mohan.
 
The film was released on 1 September 1985 to positive reception, with Rajinikanth's performance as a saint receiving widespread praise, however, performance at the box office was lukewarm.


== Plot ==
== Plot ==
{{more plot|date=November 2021}}
{{more plot|date=November 2021}}
This film is the life of [[Raghavendra Tirtha]], from Birth till his Mahasamadhi.
This film features the life of [[Raghavendra Tirtha]], from Birth till his Mahasamadhi.


== Cast ==
== Cast ==
{{Cast listing|
* [[Rajinikanth]] as [[Raghavendra Tirtha]]
* [[Rajinikanth]] as [[Raghavendra Tirtha]]
* [[Lakshmi (actress)|Lakshmi]] as Saraswati Bai
* [[Lakshmi (actress)|Lakshmi]] as Saraswathi Bai
* [[Vishnuvardhan (actor)|Vishnuvardhan]] as Sri Yogenthra Tirtha
* [[Vishnuvardhan (actor)|Vishnuvardhan]] as Sri Yogenthra Tirtha
* [[Sathyaraj]] as Maqbool Khan, Nawab of [[Adoni]]
* [[Sathyaraj]] as Maqbool Khan, Nawab of [[Adoni]]
Line 45: Line 47:
* [[Senthamarai (actor)|Senthamarai]] as Tamil Poet
* [[Senthamarai (actor)|Senthamarai]] as Tamil Poet
* [[Janagaraj]] as Guru Sri Sudeendrar's disciple
* [[Janagaraj]] as Guru Sri Sudeendrar's disciple
* [[Veeraraghavan (actor)|Veeraraghavan]] as Seemasachar
* S. R. Veeraraghavan as Seemaachar
* [[Srikant]] as Devotee who is blessed by Sri Raghavendra who protects this family by killing the demon character
* [[Srikanth (actor, born 1940)|Srikanth]] as Devotee who is blessed by Sri Raghavendra who protects this family by killing the demon character
* [[G. Sreenivasan]] as "Lower caste" person mistreated by V.S.Raghavan's character initially but blessed by Sri Raghavendra
* [[G. Srinivasan (actor)|G. Srinivasan]] as "Lower caste" person mistreated by V.S.Raghavan's character initially but blessed by Sri Raghavendra
* [[Manorama (Tamil actress)|Manorama]] as Saraswathi Bai's friend
* [[Manorama (Tamil actress)|Manorama]] as Saraswathi Bai's friend
* [[Typist Gopu|Gopu]]
* Nisha Noor as Saraswathi Bai's friend
* [[Venniradai Moorthy]]
* [[Typist Gopu]]
* [[Vennira Aadai Moorthy]]
* [[Peeli Sivam]]
* C. Vasantha as Poornam Viswanathan's wife
* [[Pandari Bai]]
}}


== Production ==
== Production ==
''Sri Raghavendra'' was [[Rajinikanth]]'s 100th film (including his other language films). The film featured him in the role of the saint [[Raghavendra Tirtha]], different from the larger-than-life characters which he is known for and portrayed.<ref name="raj">{{Cite web |last=Muthuraman |first=S P |author-link=S. P. Muthuraman |last2=Rajitha |date=22 December 1999 |title=Rajini acts in front of the camera, never behind it |url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/1999/dec/22muthu.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190911095936/https://www.rediff.com/movies/1999/dec/22muthu.htm |archive-date=11 September 2019 |access-date=8 November 2015 |website=[[Rediff.com]]}}</ref> Rajinikanth, a fan of Kannada actor [[Dr. Rajkumar|Rajkumar]], had seen his film ''[[Mantralaya Mahatme]]'' where Rajkumar portrayed Raghavendra. Rajinikanth approached [[S. P. Muthuraman]] to direct the film. Muthuraman was initially reluctant to direct a devotional film, but Balachander encouraged and convinced him to take up the film. To prepare himself to direct the film, Muthuraman watched various devotional films directed by [[A. P. Nagarajan]] who was known for such films. Prior to the start of the film, the team took the script first to the Swami's abode in [[Mantralayam]], and got it blessed. They did the same thing with the first copy, post-completion.<ref name= raj /> Muthuraman said that during the 90-day schedule, all the cast and crew of the film undergone the ritual of fasting on Thursday in reverence to lord's presence considering it was the mythological film.<ref name="Raghavendra">{{Cite web |date=4 December 2012 |title=ரஜினியின் 100 வது படம் 'ஸ்ரீராகவேந்திரர்': ஸ்டைல்களை ஒதுக்கி விட்டு, மகானாகவே வாழ்ந்து காட்டினார் |url=http://cinema.maalaimalar.com/2012/12/04234518/rajinikanth-100th-movie-srirag.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151010060546/http://cinema.maalaimalar.com/2012/12/04234518/rajinikanth-100th-movie-srirag.html |archive-date=10 October 2015 |access-date=17 September 2015 |website=[[Maalai Malar]] |language=ta}}</ref>
''Sri Raghavendra'' was [[Rajinikanth]]'s 100th film (including his other language films).<ref>{{Cite news |title=Rajinikanth's top 10 avatars |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/photo-features/rajinikanths-top-10-avatars/photostory/48693605.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150831150253/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/photo-features/Rajinikanths-top-10-avatars/photostory/48693605.cms |archive-date=31 August 2015 |access-date=7 August 2022 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> The film featured him in the role of the saint [[Raghavendra Tirtha]], different from the larger-than-life characters which he is known for and portrayed.<ref name="raj">{{Cite web |last1=Muthuraman |first1=S P |author-link=S. P. Muthuraman |last2=Rajitha |date=22 December 1999 |title=Rajini acts in front of the camera, never behind it |url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/1999/dec/22muthu.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190911095936/https://www.rediff.com/movies/1999/dec/22muthu.htm |archive-date=11 September 2019 |access-date=8 November 2015 |website=[[Rediff.com]]}}</ref> Rajinikanth, a fan of Kannada actor [[Dr. Rajkumar|Rajkumar]], had seen his film ''[[Mantralaya Mahatme]]'' where Rajkumar portrayed Raghavendra. Rajinikanth approached [[S. P. Muthuraman]] to direct the film. Muthuraman was initially reluctant to direct a devotional film as he hails from a family of [[Self-Respect Movement]], but Balachander encouraged and convinced him to take up the film.<ref>{{cite magazine |date=2 December 2007 |title=ரஜினி காட்டிய பிடிவாதம்! |url=https://archive.org/download/kalki2007-12-02/kalki2007-12-02.pdf |access-date=1 June 2024 |magazine=[[Kalki (magazine)|Kalki]] |pages=4–7 |language=ta |via=[[Internet Archive]]}}</ref> To prepare himself to direct the film, Muthuraman watched various devotional films directed by [[A. P. Nagarajan]] who was known for such films. In order to portray the scenes of saint authentically, few people from Raghavendra Mutt were invited to the shoot to provide their guidance.<ref name="kat">{{cite magazine |date=9 December 2007 |title=கட்டபொம்மனுக்கு சிவாஜி; ஸ்ரீ ராகவேந்திரருக்கு ரஜினி! |url=https://archive.org/download/kalki2007-12-09/kalki2007-12-09.pdf |access-date=2 June 2024 |magazine=[[Kalki (magazine)|Kalki]] |pages=68–71 |language=ta |via=[[Internet Archive]]}}</ref> Prior to the start of the film, the team took the script first to the Swami's abode in [[Mantralayam]], and got it blessed. They did the same thing with the first copy, post-completion.<ref name="raj" /> Muthuraman said that during the 90-day schedule, all the cast and crew of the film undergone the ritual of fasting on Thursday in reverence to lord's presence considering it was the mythological film.<ref name="Raghavendra">{{Cite web |date=4 December 2012 |title=ரஜினியின் 100 வது படம் 'ஸ்ரீராகவேந்திரர்': ஸ்டைல்களை ஒதுக்கி விட்டு, மகானாகவே வாழ்ந்து காட்டினார் |url=http://cinema.maalaimalar.com/2012/12/04234518/rajinikanth-100th-movie-srirag.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151010060546/http://cinema.maalaimalar.com/2012/12/04234518/rajinikanth-100th-movie-srirag.html |archive-date=10 October 2015 |access-date=17 September 2015 |website=[[Maalai Malar]] |language=ta}}</ref> The introduction song with [[Sathyaraj]] was shot for the film; however Balachander felt this song was glamorous and felt out of place in a devotional film, hence Muthuraman removed the song from the film.<ref name=kat />


== Soundtrack ==
== Soundtrack ==
Soundtrack was composed by [[Ilaiyaraaja]] and lyrics for all songs were written by [[Vaali (poet)|Vaali]]. The song "Parthale Theriyadha" is based on Anandabhairavi raga.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Mani |first=Charulatha |author-link=Charulatha Mani |date=28 October 2011 |title=A Raga's Journey&nbsp;— The allure of Anandabhairavi |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/a-ragas-journey-the-allure-of-anandabhairavi/article2576822.ece |access-date=8 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190911094653/https://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/a-ragas-journey-the-allure-of-anandabhairavi/article2576822.ece |archive-date=11 September 2019}}</ref> The song "Aadal Kalaiye" is based on Charukesi raga.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Mani |first=Charulatha |author-link=Charulatha Mani |date=3 February 2012 |title=A Raga's Journey&nbsp;— The charm of Charukesi |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/a-ragas-journey-the-charm-of-charukesi/article2857091.ece |access-date=8 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190911094943/https://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/a-ragas-journey-the-charm-of-charukesi/article2857091.ece |archive-date=11 September 2019}}</ref> The song "Azhaikiran Madhavan" is based on Subhapantuvarali raga.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Mani |first=Charulatha |author-link=Charulatha Mani |date=17 February 2012 |title=A Raga's Journey&nbsp;— Sorrowful Subhapantuvarali |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/a-ragas-journey-sorrowful-subhapantuvarali/article2903378.ece |access-date=8 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190911095154/https://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/a-ragas-journey-sorrowful-subhapantuvarali/article2903378.ece |archive-date=11 September 2019}}</ref> The song "Ramanamam" is based on Mayamalavagowla raga.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Mani |first=Charulatha |author-link=Charulatha Mani |date=11 November 2011 |title=A Raga's Journey&nbsp;— The magic of Mayamalavagowla |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/music/a-ragas-journey-the-magic-of-mayamalavagowla/article2618199.ece |access-date=8 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190911095504/https://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/music/a-ragas-journey-the-magic-of-mayamalavagowla/article2618199.ece |archive-date=11 September 2019}}</ref> The song "Mazhaikkoru" is based on Amruthavarshini raga.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Mani |first=Charulatha |author-link=Charulatha Mani |date=30 March 2012 |title=A Raga's Journey&nbsp;— Appealing Amritavarshini |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/music/a-ragas-journey-appealing-amritavarshini/article3262431.ece |access-date=8 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190911095628/https://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/music/a-ragas-journey-appealing-amritavarshini/article3262431.ece |archive-date=11 September 2019}}</ref> The song "Unakum Enakum" was later reused by American Musical group [[Black Eyed Peas]]'s bonus track "The Elephunk Theme" from their 2003 album ''[[Elephunk]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Parasuraman |first=Prathyush |date=12 August 2020 |title=Black Eyed Peas’ (Odd) Ode To Indian Cinema’s Romance With Exaggerated Action That Is As Much Meme As Mass |url=https://www.filmcompanion.in/features/bollywood-features/black-eyed-peas-indian-music-odd-ode-to-indian-cinemas-romance-with-exaggerated-action-that-is-as-much-meme-as-mass-singham-robot/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211103131741/https://www.filmcompanion.in/features/bollywood-features/black-eyed-peas-indian-music-odd-ode-to-indian-cinemas-romance-with-exaggerated-action-that-is-as-much-meme-as-mass-singham-robot/ |archive-date=3 November 2021 |access-date=19 November 2021 |website=[[Film Companion]]}}</ref>
Soundtrack was composed by [[Ilaiyaraaja]] and lyrics for all songs were written by [[Vaali (poet)|Vaali]]. The song "Parthale Theriyadha" is based on Anandabhairavi raga.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Mani |first=Charulatha |author-link=Charulatha Mani |date=28 October 2011 |title=A Raga's Journey&nbsp;— The allure of Anandabhairavi |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/a-ragas-journey-the-allure-of-anandabhairavi/article2576822.ece |access-date=8 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190911094653/https://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/a-ragas-journey-the-allure-of-anandabhairavi/article2576822.ece |archive-date=11 September 2019}}</ref> The song "Aadal Kalaiye" is based on Charukesi raga.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Mani |first=Charulatha |author-link=Charulatha Mani |date=3 February 2012 |title=A Raga's Journey&nbsp;— The charm of Charukesi |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/a-ragas-journey-the-charm-of-charukesi/article2857091.ece |access-date=8 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190911094943/https://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/a-ragas-journey-the-charm-of-charukesi/article2857091.ece |archive-date=11 September 2019}}</ref> The song "Azhaikiran Madhavan" is based on Subhapantuvarali raga.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Mani |first=Charulatha |author-link=Charulatha Mani |date=17 February 2012 |title=A Raga's Journey&nbsp;— Sorrowful Subhapantuvarali |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/a-ragas-journey-sorrowful-subhapantuvarali/article2903378.ece |access-date=8 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190911095154/https://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/a-ragas-journey-sorrowful-subhapantuvarali/article2903378.ece |archive-date=11 September 2019}}</ref> The song "Ramanamam" is based on Mayamalavagowla raga.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Mani |first=Charulatha |author-link=Charulatha Mani |date=11 November 2011 |title=A Raga's Journey&nbsp;— The magic of Mayamalavagowla |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/music/a-ragas-journey-the-magic-of-mayamalavagowla/article2618199.ece |access-date=8 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190911095504/https://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/music/a-ragas-journey-the-magic-of-mayamalavagowla/article2618199.ece |archive-date=11 September 2019}}</ref> The song "Mazhaikkoru" is based on Amruthavarshini raga.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Mani |first=Charulatha |author-link=Charulatha Mani |date=30 March 2012 |title=A Raga's Journey&nbsp;— Appealing Amritavarshini |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/music/a-ragas-journey-appealing-amritavarshini/article3262431.ece |access-date=8 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190911095628/https://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/music/a-ragas-journey-appealing-amritavarshini/article3262431.ece |archive-date=11 September 2019}}</ref> The song "Unakum Enakum" was later reused by American Musical group [[Black Eyed Peas]]'s bonus track "The Elephunk Theme" from their 2003 album ''[[Elephunk]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Parasuraman |first=Prathyush |date=12 August 2020 |title=Black Eyed Peas' (Odd) Ode To Indian Cinema's Romance With Exaggerated Action That Is As Much Meme As Mass |url=https://www.filmcompanion.in/features/bollywood-features/black-eyed-peas-indian-music-odd-ode-to-indian-cinemas-romance-with-exaggerated-action-that-is-as-much-meme-as-mass-singham-robot/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211103131741/https://www.filmcompanion.in/features/bollywood-features/black-eyed-peas-indian-music-odd-ode-to-indian-cinemas-romance-with-exaggerated-action-that-is-as-much-meme-as-mass-singham-robot/ |archive-date=3 November 2021 |access-date=19 November 2021 |website=[[Film Companion]]}}</ref>


{{Tracklist
{{Track listing
| extra_column = Singer(s)
| all_music = [[Ilaiyaraaja]]
| title1 = Aadal Kalaiye
| all_lyrics = [[Vaali (poet)|Vaali]]
| extra1 = [[K. J. Yesudas]]
| headline      = Track listing
| title2 = Azhaikiraan Maathavan
| extra_column = Singer(s)
| extra2 = K. J. Yesudas, C. Dinesh
| title1       = Aadal Kalaiye
| title3 = Kathiravan Ezhunthaan
| extra1       = [[K. J. Yesudas]]
| extra3 = [[Malaysia Vasudevan]]
| title2       = Azhaikiraan Maathavan
| title4 = Mazhaikku Oru Devaney
| extra2       = K. J. Yesudas, [[Malaysia Vasudevan]], C. Dinesh
| extra4 = K. J. Yesudas
| title3       = Kathiravan Ezhunthaan
| title5 = Paarthale Theriyaatha
| extra3       = [[Malaysia Vasudevan]]
| extra5 = Manorama, [[Vani Jairam]]
| title4       = Mazhaikku Oru Devaney
| title6 = Raama Naamam
| extra4       = K. J. Yesudas
| extra6 = K. J. Yesudas, Vani Jayaram, Madurai Srinivasan
| title5       = Paarthale Theriyaatha
| title7 = Unakkum Enakkum
| extra5       = Manorama, [[Vani Jairam]]
| extra7 = [[S. Janaki]], Malaysia Vasudevan
| title6       = Raama Naamam
| extra6       = K. J. Yesudas, Vani Jayaram, Madurai Srinivasan
| title7       = Unakkum Enakkum
| extra7       = [[S. Janaki]], Malaysia Vasudevan
}}
}}


== Reception ==
== Reception ==
The film received [[tax exemption]] from Tamil Nadu government,<ref name="Raghavendra" /><ref>{{Cite news |last=Kesavan |first=N. |date=14 May 2016 |title=100th film jinx grips the mighty sans 'Captain' |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/tamil-film-industry-100th-film-jinx-grips-the-mighty-sans-captain/article8595803.ece |url-status=live |access-date=19 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180628234546/https://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/tamil-film-industry-100th-film-jinx-grips-the-mighty-sans-captain/article8595803.ece |archive-date=28 June 2018}}</ref> and received positive reviews, primarily for Rajinikanth's performance, but became a [[box-office bomb]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Saraswathi |first=S. |date=27 August 2015 |title=Best films of Rajinikanth |url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/report/40-years-of-rajinikanth-south/20150827.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210225173542/https://www.rediff.com/movies/report/40-years-of-rajinikanth-south/20150827.htm |archive-date=25 February 2021 |access-date=19 November 2021 |website=[[Rediff.com]]}}</ref> Despite this Rajinikanth won three awards for his performance: the Film Fans Association Award for Best Actor, [[Cinema Express Award for Best Actor – Tamil]] and Filmalaya Award for Best Actor.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Ramachandran |first=Naman |title=Rajinikanth: The Definitive Biography |title-link=Rajinikanth: The Definitive Biography |publisher=[[Penguin Books]] |year=2014 |isbn=978-0-14-342111-5 |location=New Delhi |pages=268 |author-link=Naman Ramachandran |orig-date=2012}}</ref> The film itself frequently features on lists compiling Rajinikanth's best films,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Balamurugan |first=K. |date=22 May 2007 |title=Rajni's Tamil Top 10 |url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/2007/may/22sli7.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140707063043/http://www.rediff.com/movies/2007/may/22sli7.htm |archive-date=7 July 2014 |access-date=25 November 2013 |website=[[Rediff.com]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Top 12 Rajinikanth movies |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/photo-features/top-12-rajinikanth-movies/rajinikanth/photostory/27121611.cms |access-date=19 November 2021 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> and he considers it a personal favourite film.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Suganth |first=M. |date=26 July 2015 |title=Panchu Arunachalam is the man who invented Rajinikanth as an actor |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/Panchu-Arunachalam-is-the-man-who-invented-Rajinikanth-as-an-actor/articleshow/48215004.cms |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150726155121/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/Panchu-Arunachalam-is-the-man-who-invented-Rajinikanth-as-an-actor/articleshow/48215004.cms |archive-date=26 July 2015 |access-date=26 July 2015 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref>
The film received [[tax exemption]] from Tamil Nadu government,<ref name="Raghavendra" /><ref>{{Cite news |last=Kesavan |first=N. |date=14 May 2016 |title=100th film jinx grips the mighty sans 'Captain' |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/tamil-film-industry-100th-film-jinx-grips-the-mighty-sans-captain/article8595803.ece |url-status=live |access-date=19 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180628234546/https://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/tamil-film-industry-100th-film-jinx-grips-the-mighty-sans-captain/article8595803.ece |archive-date=28 June 2018}}</ref> and received positive reviews, primarily for Rajinikanth's performance.<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/shorts/5jNuDdqDpwg |title=மக்கள் விரும்புவாங்களா... SP Muthuraman Interview {{!}} Sri Raghavendra {{!}} Super Star Rajinikanth |language=en |access-date=2025-12-10 |via=www.youtube.com}}</ref> Despite this Rajinikanth won three awards for his performance: the Film Fans Association Award for Best Actor, [[Cinema Express Award for Best Actor – Tamil]] and Filmalaya Award for Best Actor.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Ramachandran |first=Naman |title=Rajinikanth: The Definitive Biography |title-link=Rajinikanth: The Definitive Biography |publisher=[[Penguin Books]] |year=2014 |isbn=978-0-14-342111-5 |location=New Delhi |pages=268 |author-link=Naman Ramachandran |orig-date=2012}}</ref> The film itself frequently features on lists compiling Rajinikanth's best movies,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Balamurugan |first=K. |date=22 May 2007 |title=Rajni's Tamil Top 10 |url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/2007/may/22sli7.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140707063043/http://www.rediff.com/movies/2007/may/22sli7.htm |archive-date=7 July 2014 |access-date=25 November 2013 |website=[[Rediff.com]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=Top 12 Rajinikanth movies |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/photo-features/top-12-rajinikanth-movies/rajinikanth/photostory/27121611.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211119064416/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/photo-features/top-12-rajinikanth-movies/rajinikanth/photostory/27121611.cms |archive-date=19 November 2021 |access-date=19 November 2021 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> and he considers it a personal favourite film.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Suganth |first=M. |date=26 July 2015 |title=Panchu Arunachalam is the man who invented Rajinikanth as an actor |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/Panchu-Arunachalam-is-the-man-who-invented-Rajinikanth-as-an-actor/articleshow/48215004.cms |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150726155121/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/Panchu-Arunachalam-is-the-man-who-invented-Rajinikanth-as-an-actor/articleshow/48215004.cms |archive-date=26 July 2015 |access-date=26 July 2015 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> [[Subha (writers)|Jayamanmadhan]] of ''[[Kalki (magazine)|Kalki]]'' praised Rajinikanth for scoring a century and choosing a role which is one of the hundred for his 100th film something that will make proud.<ref>{{cite magazine |last=ஜெயமன்மதன் |author-link=Subha (writers) |date=1985-09-22 |title=ஸ்ரீ ராகவேந்திரர் |url=https://archive.org/details/kalki1985-09-22/page/n53/mode/2up |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230807112151/https://archive.org/details/kalki1985-09-22/page/n53/mode/2up |archive-date=7 August 2023 |access-date=24 February 2023 |magazine=[[Kalki (magazine)|Kalki]] |page=53 |language=Ta |via=[[Internet Archive]]}}</ref>


== References ==
== References ==
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== External links ==
== External links ==
*{{IMDb title|tt0320523}}
*{{IMDb title|0320523}}


{{S. P. Muthuraman}}
{{S. P. Muthuraman}}
{{Kavithalaya Productions}}
{{Kavithalaya Productions}}


[[Category:1980s Tamil-language films]]
[[Category:1985 Indian films]]
[[Category:1985 Tamil-language films]]
[[Category:1985 films]]
[[Category:1985 films]]
[[Category:Films directed by S. P. Muthuraman]]
[[Category:Films directed by S. P. Muthuraman]]
[[Category:Films scored by Ilaiyaraaja]]
[[Category:Films scored by Ilaiyaraaja]]
[[Category:Hindu mythological films]]
[[Category:Hindu mythological films]]
[[Category:Indian films]]
[[Category:Tamil-language Indian films]]

Latest revision as of 11:34, 13 March 2026


Sri Raghavendrar
Theatrical release poster
Directed byS. P. Muthuraman
Written byA. L. Narayanan (dialogues)
StarringRajinikanth
Lakshmi
Vishnuvardhan
Music byIlaiyaraaja
CinematographyT. S. Vinayagam
Edited byR. Vittal
S. B. Mohan
Production
company
Release date
  • 1 September 1985 (1985-09-01)
Running time
160 minutes
CountryIndia
LanguageTamil

Sri Raghavendrar is a 1985 Indian Tamil-language Hindu historical film directed by S. P. Muthuraman and produced by Kavithalayaa Productions. The film is based on the life of Hindu saint Raghavendra Tirtha.

The film stars Rajinikanth, portraying the title character, in his 100th film. Lakshmi, Vishnuvardhan, Delhi Ganesh and Nizhalgal Ravi play prominent roles. The soundtrack was composed by Ilaiyaraaja and lyrics were written by Vaali. The dialogue for the film was written by A. L. Narayanan. The cinematography was handled by T. S. Vinayagam, while the editing was done by duo R. Vittal and S. B. Mohan.

The film was released on 1 September 1985 to positive reception, with Rajinikanth's performance as a saint receiving widespread praise, however, performance at the box office was lukewarm.

Plot[edit | edit source]

This film features the life of Raghavendra Tirtha, from Birth till his Mahasamadhi.

Cast[edit | edit source]

Production[edit | edit source]

Sri Raghavendra was Rajinikanth's 100th film (including his other language films).[1] The film featured him in the role of the saint Raghavendra Tirtha, different from the larger-than-life characters which he is known for and portrayed.[2] Rajinikanth, a fan of Kannada actor Rajkumar, had seen his film Mantralaya Mahatme where Rajkumar portrayed Raghavendra. Rajinikanth approached S. P. Muthuraman to direct the film. Muthuraman was initially reluctant to direct a devotional film as he hails from a family of Self-Respect Movement, but Balachander encouraged and convinced him to take up the film.[3] To prepare himself to direct the film, Muthuraman watched various devotional films directed by A. P. Nagarajan who was known for such films. In order to portray the scenes of saint authentically, few people from Raghavendra Mutt were invited to the shoot to provide their guidance.[4] Prior to the start of the film, the team took the script first to the Swami's abode in Mantralayam, and got it blessed. They did the same thing with the first copy, post-completion.[2] Muthuraman said that during the 90-day schedule, all the cast and crew of the film undergone the ritual of fasting on Thursday in reverence to lord's presence considering it was the mythological film.[5] The introduction song with Sathyaraj was shot for the film; however Balachander felt this song was glamorous and felt out of place in a devotional film, hence Muthuraman removed the song from the film.[4]

Soundtrack[edit | edit source]

Soundtrack was composed by Ilaiyaraaja and lyrics for all songs were written by Vaali. The song "Parthale Theriyadha" is based on Anandabhairavi raga.[6] The song "Aadal Kalaiye" is based on Charukesi raga.[7] The song "Azhaikiran Madhavan" is based on Subhapantuvarali raga.[8] The song "Ramanamam" is based on Mayamalavagowla raga.[9] The song "Mazhaikkoru" is based on Amruthavarshini raga.[10] The song "Unakum Enakum" was later reused by American Musical group Black Eyed Peas's bonus track "The Elephunk Theme" from their 2003 album Elephunk.[11]

All lyrics are written by Vaali; all music is composed by Ilaiyaraaja.

Track listing
No.TitleSinger(s)Length
1."Aadal Kalaiye"K. J. Yesudas 
2."Azhaikiraan Maathavan"K. J. Yesudas, Malaysia Vasudevan, C. Dinesh 
3."Kathiravan Ezhunthaan"Malaysia Vasudevan 
4."Mazhaikku Oru Devaney"K. J. Yesudas 
5."Paarthale Theriyaatha"Manorama, Vani Jairam 
6."Raama Naamam"K. J. Yesudas, Vani Jayaram, Madurai Srinivasan 
7."Unakkum Enakkum"S. Janaki, Malaysia Vasudevan 

Reception[edit | edit source]

The film received tax exemption from Tamil Nadu government,[5][12] and received positive reviews, primarily for Rajinikanth's performance.[13] Despite this Rajinikanth won three awards for his performance: the Film Fans Association Award for Best Actor, Cinema Express Award for Best Actor – Tamil and Filmalaya Award for Best Actor.[14] The film itself frequently features on lists compiling Rajinikanth's best movies,[15][16] and he considers it a personal favourite film.[17] Jayamanmadhan of Kalki praised Rajinikanth for scoring a century and choosing a role which is one of the hundred for his 100th film something that will make proud.[18]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ "Rajinikanth's top 10 avatars". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 31 August 2015. Retrieved 7 August 2022.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 Muthuraman, S P; Rajitha (22 December 1999). "Rajini acts in front of the camera, never behind it". Rediff.com. Archived from the original on 11 September 2019. Retrieved 8 November 2015.
  3. ↑ "ரஜினி காட்டிய பிடிவாதம்!" (PDF). Kalki (in தமிழ்). 2 December 2007. pp. 4–7. Retrieved 1 June 2024 – via Internet Archive.
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 "கட்டபொம்மனுக்கு சிவாஜி; ஸ்ரீ ராகவேந்திரருக்கு ரஜினி!" (PDF). Kalki (in தமிழ்). 9 December 2007. pp. 68–71. Retrieved 2 June 2024 – via Internet Archive.
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 "ரஜினியின் 100 வது படம் 'ஸ்ரீராகவேந்திரர்': ஸ்டைல்களை ஒதுக்கி விட்டு, மகானாகவே வாழ்ந்து காட்டினார்". Maalai Malar (in தமிழ்). 4 December 2012. Archived from the original on 10 October 2015. Retrieved 17 September 2015.
  6. ↑ Mani, Charulatha (28 October 2011). "A Raga's Journey — The allure of Anandabhairavi". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 11 September 2019. Retrieved 8 November 2015.
  7. ↑ Mani, Charulatha (3 February 2012). "A Raga's Journey — The charm of Charukesi". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 11 September 2019. Retrieved 8 November 2015.
  8. ↑ Mani, Charulatha (17 February 2012). "A Raga's Journey — Sorrowful Subhapantuvarali". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 11 September 2019. Retrieved 8 November 2015.
  9. ↑ Mani, Charulatha (11 November 2011). "A Raga's Journey — The magic of Mayamalavagowla". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 11 September 2019. Retrieved 8 November 2015.
  10. ↑ Mani, Charulatha (30 March 2012). "A Raga's Journey — Appealing Amritavarshini". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 11 September 2019. Retrieved 8 November 2015.
  11. ↑ Parasuraman, Prathyush (12 August 2020). "Black Eyed Peas' (Odd) Ode To Indian Cinema's Romance With Exaggerated Action That Is As Much Meme As Mass". Film Companion. Archived from the original on 3 November 2021. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
  12. ↑ Kesavan, N. (14 May 2016). "100th film jinx grips the mighty sans 'Captain'". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 28 June 2018. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
  13. ↑ மக்கள் விரும்புவாங்களா... SP Muthuraman Interview | Sri Raghavendra | Super Star Rajinikanth. Retrieved 10 December 2025 – via www.youtube.com.
  14. ↑ Ramachandran, Naman (2014) [2012]. Rajinikanth: The Definitive Biography. New Delhi: Penguin Books. p. 268. ISBN 978-0-14-342111-5.
  15. ↑ Balamurugan, K. (22 May 2007). "Rajni's Tamil Top 10". Rediff.com. Archived from the original on 7 July 2014. Retrieved 25 November 2013.
  16. ↑ "Top 12 Rajinikanth movies". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
  17. ↑ Suganth, M. (26 July 2015). "Panchu Arunachalam is the man who invented Rajinikanth as an actor". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 26 July 2015. Retrieved 26 July 2015.
  18. ↑ ஜெயமன்மதன் (22 September 1985). "ஸ்ரீ ராகவேந்திரர்". Kalki (in தமிழ்). p. 53. Retrieved 24 February 2023 – via Internet Archive.{{cite magazine}}: CS1 maint: deprecated archival service (link)

External links[edit | edit source]

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