"Kadhalukku Mariyadhai" (1997) by Fazil was his own Malayalam film remake of Aniyathipraavu of 1997. It's about musical romantic drama film, starring Vijay and Shalini in lead roles. The movie follows the path of Jeeva, a man in love with Mini, whose love is always thwarted due to her three overprotective brothers beating him up every time they catch him. Determined despite their families’ disapproval, the pair, frustrated by their families’ opposition, choose to elope and be married against all odds.
Jeevanantham, nicknamed “Jeeva,” is the privileged young son of a rich and influential family, who has recently graduated with his B.Com and would like to study for his MBA rather than marry, as expected by his parents. His anti-Hindu government mindset is shocked back to reality when he falls crazily in love with Mini, a young Christian girl he meets while visiting a communal riot-affected bookstore. After some events, Jeeva wins Mini's heart, but her three protective brothers, James, Stephen, and Thomas, find out and violently confront Jeeva and his friends, warning him to stay away from Mini.
When Jeeva brings Mini home, his father, Rajshekhar, rejects their relationship and kicks them out. Jeeva’s buddies Kesavan and Raghavan radically aid them in uncovering protection with Kesavan’s dad, Kalingeyan, a fisherman. Kalingeyan is in favour of their relationship and intends to arrange their marriage. Soon, Jeeva and Mini begin to have second thoughts because of familial resistance and choose to call it off, a decision their friends respect. When Mini’s marriage is arranged with someone else, Jeeva’s mother sets out to meet Mini’s family to suggest a marriage between Jeeva and Mini. Both families reach mutual understanding and forgiveness, resulting in a happy reunion of Jeeva & Mini.
“Kadhalukku Mariyadhai” is a sweet musical romance that depicts the battle of young love against parental opposition with a gentle touch so apparent even in its more shady themes. Filled with unforgettable performances and soulful music, the film chronicles the emotional struggle of a couple caught between love and respect for their families. Juggling equal parts warmth, tension and sacrifice, it brings to life a beautiful story of understanding, coming of age and the noble strength of love, which prevails at last.