Pathonpatham Noottandu

Director Vinayan picks the real-life story of Arratupuzha Velayudha Chekavar for his cinematic representation.

The film is, no doubt, a Siju Wilson vehicle and the actor makes the most of the opportunity. Mass elevation scenes are the order of the day, if you look at most of the big commercial films that have done well at the box office. In a film boasting a massive ensemble cast, Kayadu strikes lucky and walks away with the meatiest role and she gives it a spirited performance. I am not an expert on the subject, so, I can’t say with surety how much of the film is a fictionalised account, but for the most part it is steeped in facts. Story: In the mid-19th century, Velayudha Chekavar (Siju Wilson) a wealthy trader and warrior, takes up the cudgels of social reform for the benefit of members of his community, fighting against untouchability, right to religious practices and the right for women to cover their breasts, among others. The filmmaker gets Siju Wilson to play Chekavar, for which the actor got into the best physical shape he’s ever been.