Kalyanaraman

Kalyanaraman (1979) is a supernatural comedy film. Features Kamal Haasan, Sridevi, V. K. Ramasamy and Major Sundarrajan. The film follows Kalyanam, the naive and childlike son of a wealthy estate owner, who is deceived and killed by the corrupt estate manager plotting to steal the family's wealth. After his death, Kalyanam's long-lost twin brother discovers the truth and returns to set things right, seeking justice and revenge for his brother's murder.

Kalyanam is the innocent and childlike son of Chinnadurai, a wealthy tea estate owner. Worried that his son won’t be able to manage the estate or care for himself after his death, Chinnadurai tries to arrange a marriage for him. But Kalyanam declines because he is in love with Shenbagam, a worker on the estate and daughter of Chinnadurai's driver Perumal. Shenbagam does not reciprocate Kalyanam's emotions even after all his efforts. At the same time, the estate manager intends to rob Chinnadurais of his wealth, together with Perumal and Samipillai, the cook. They hire a goon to kill Chinnadurai.

On his deathbed, Chinnadurai reveals to Kalyanam that he once abandoned his first wife, Rajalakshmi and his twin son, Raman, and asks Kalyanam to find them. Samipillai hears this and tricks Kalyanam by hiring actors to pose as Raman and Rajalakshmi. When Kalyanam overhears their plan, he tries to inform the police, but is murdered. Shenbagam sees this and loses her sanity, while young Kuppu, who also witnessed it, is silenced by having his tongue cut. Now a ghost, Kalyanam finds Raman in Madras and explains everything. Raman returns, pretends to be Kalyanam’s ghost, and exposes the robbers. Kalyanams help Shenbagam heal, Kuppu learns to speak, and justice is done. Peace is reinstated as Raman marries Shenbagam.

Kalyanaraman is a singular combination of supernatural elements, humour, and emotional drama that keeps the audience entertained all the way through. The film's refreshing story for its time combines comedy and suspense with a touch of fantasy. Excellent performances, particularly in double roles and captivating music give the narrative depth. Kalyanaraman is a classic remembered, and amusing for its blend of revenge, family connections and lighthearted events.