Bharathiraja’s film Mudhal Mariyathai explores an unusual romance between older man,younger woman. Inspired by Russian author Fyodor Dostoevsky and wife Anna Snitkina. Stars Sivaji Ganesan and Radha, with music by Ilaiyaraaja — “Vettiveru Vaasam Vedalapullai Nesam” captures film's essence.
At first, film faced doubts. Many,including producer Panchu Arunachalam, thought it would flop. Even Ilaiyaraaja was skeptical. But Mudhal Mariyathai defied odds, becoming a hit . R . Selvaraj, Tamil film story writer and Bharathiraja's close friend,said,“Initially,everyone was quick to write off film as a flop.”
Selvaraj,who shared a 63-year bond with Bharathiraja,worked on films like Kizhakke Pogum Rail,Puthiya Vaarpugal. Their connection started with a letter after Bharathiraja read Selvaraj’s story in Maalai Murasu. Shared interests,Communist ties,and Ilaiyaraaja friendship strengthened their bond.
Scene where Radha gets Sivaji Ganesan’s silver hair was Selvaraj's idea. Before release,Bharathiraja held special screening for women,asked their opinions. Over 40 women praised it,so Bharathiraja went ahead with release. Selvaraj said, “It was then that Bharathiraja decided to go ahead with the release.”
After positive feedback,Bharathiraja celebrated with Selvaraj at Taj Hotel. When they went to pay,found distributor Athadi Selvaraj had already paid. He wanted distribution rights for Coimbatore. That was start of film's success.
Bharathiraja loved literature deeply. Selvaraj noted his admiration for Rabindranath Tagore,and his love for strong dialogue. Recalled writing a line for actor Ranjani in Kadalora Kavithaigal that moved Bharathiraja. “When I wrote the line,‘Unga kaala pidichalum pidippene thavira kaiya pidikka matten,’ he simply embraced me,” Selvaraj said.
On a visit to Selvaraj’s home,Bharathiraja asked,“Who will die first — you or me?” Selvaraj reflects on that moment now,missing his friend. Bharathiraja's legacy,through Mudhal Mariyathai,still echoes in Tamil cinema…
