K. Bhagyaraj Special 6: Classic Film Review: “Dhaavani Kanavugal”

K. Bhagyaraj’s 11^th directorial – titled Dhaavani Kanavugal – was released on 14 September 1984 and saw K. Bhagyaraj share the screen with the legendary Sivaji Ganesan.

Others in the cast are M.R. Radhika, Illavarasi, Poornima Rao, Kokila, Uma Bharani, Nithya, Babitha and child star Priyadharshini (now television host and actress) There is also an extended guest role by Bhagyaraj’s Guru, Bharathiraja and special guest appearances by Radha, Urvashi and Chithra Lakshmanan. The film also marks the acting debut of R. Parthiban and Mayilsamy.

Subramaniam (K. Bhagyaraj) is an unemployed graduate who has five sisters and a mother to take care of. As his search for employment continues, the challenges at home worsen as does his financial situation. Desperation drives him to Chennai but the big break he was waiting for remains elusive. How does he deal with the many challenges and what would become of his family? These questions are answered in the rest of Dhaavani Kanavugal.

K. Bhagyaraj once again does a splendid job portraying the hapless, desperate but lovable Subramaniam. Sivaji Ganesan plays an unusual role, sometimes straying towards being melodramatic. Radhika is in a powerful role that has charm and depth. Poornima Rao is impressive. Kokila, Uma Bharani, Nithya, Babitha and Priyadharshini all do a commendable of playing Subramaniam’s sisters, with Priyadharshini obviously being the pick of them.

Parthiban delivers a moving performance as the postman with a soft heart.

The star of the film is undoubtedly Bharathiraja in an extended cameo as himself. His magnetic aura, crisp voice and effortless emoting make his contribution and unforgettable one. All the other cameos are additional treats.

Illaiyaraja’s music once again is outstanding on two fronts. His songs are a delight, but his background score drives much of the film with creative and memorable pieces.

Cinematographer A.V. Ramakrishnan deliberately uses a limited palette for much of the film, but shows his willingness to experiment in many of the shots – both indoors and outdoors.

Amazingly, Dhaavani Kanavugal could not repeat the box-office success of Mundhanai Mudichu and various theories have been advanced to explain this. The fact of the matter is that, as good as Dhaavani Kanavugal is, it remains in the shadow of the lofty heights reached by Mundhanai Mudichu.

The film was Bhagyaraj’s first film after the death of his first wife, Praveena, and was the first and only film to be made under his production company, Praveena Film Circuit.

Dhaavani Kanavugal scores 9 points out of 10.

Watch the full movie here

Enjoy the video songs of “Dhaavani Kanavugal”

A tiny sample of the background score of “Dhaavani Kanavugal”