tamil cinema has seen several biopics and political dramas over the decades, but very few films attempt to capture an entire moment—a period of social unrest, emotional upheaval, and ideological fire—and freeze it on screen. Parasakthi belongs to that rare space. Centered on the sensitive and highly debated issue of hindi imposition, directed by sudha and headlined by Sivakarthikeyan, Atharvaa, ravi Mohan, and Sreeleela, the film arrives with towering expectations. The question is not whether it speaks politics—but whether it makes the audience feel it. And that is where Parasakthi largely succeeds.

Story

The film follows Chezhiyan (Sivakarthikeyan), a fiery activist leading a group named Puranaanuru, which resists hindi imposition through aggressive protests. The very first scene—a train set on fire—sets the tone, announcing that this is not a mild, metaphorical protest drama but a raw revolutionary narrative. Tasked with crushing this movement is a ruthless government officer (Ravi Mohan), whose loyalty lies not with people, but with power.

A turning point occurs when Chezhiyan loses a close friend during one such violent protest. Shaken by guilt and grief, he abandons the path of agitation, choosing personal survival over collective resistance. As his younger brother (Atharvaa) continues the fight, Chezhiyan attempts to adapt to the system—learning hindi and planning a move to delhi in search of employment.

However, systemic oppression follows him there too. When language becomes a gatekeeper to dignity and livelihood, and when a young man dies right in front of him due to this discrimination, Chezhiyan realizes silence is not neutrality—it is surrender. What follows is his return to the battlefield. Whether Sezhiyan wins, whether the state crushes the rebellion, forms the revolutionary spine of Parasakthi.

Performances

Sivakarthikeyan delivers what can confidently be called a career-defining performance. As Chezhiyan, he does not merely act—he transforms. The arc from a committed revolutionary to a broken man and back to a blood-soaked fighter is handled with remarkable emotional control. His restraint in quieter moments and explosive energy in protest sequences prove how far he has evolved as an actor. This is undeniably a milestone film for him.

ravi Mohan is chilling as the data-face of the state. His character operates with a terrifying moral vacuum—believing outcomes matter more than lives. His controlled aggression, cold expressions, and unwavering authority elevate the conflict, making him a formidable antagonist.

Atharvaa brings raw, youthful rage to the screen. As the next-generation protester, his performance crackles with urgency and impatience, perfectly complementing Sivakarthikeyan’s more layered portrayal.

Sreeleela, making her tamil debut, performs well and shows emotional depth. However, the extended romantic portions in the first half test patience. She redeems herself strongly in the second half, especially during the climax, where her performance finally data-aligns with the film’s intensity.

Dialogues & Writing

The sharpest weapon in Parasakthi is its writing. The dialogues are not merely loud slogans; they are pointed ideological statements. Lines that clarify “the fight is against imposition, not against a language,” and questions that expose systemic hypocrisy land with thunderous impact. These moments ignite applause and anchor the film’s political identity. This is cinema that chooses conviction over convenience.

Technical Aspects

The art direction brilliantly recreates the 1960s, immersing the audience in the era without visual distraction. Costumes, sets, and textures feel lived-in and authentic. The cinematography captures both the chaos of protests and the stillness of personal loss with equal finesse. The music supports the narrative without overpowering it, while the background score amplifies tension and emotion at the right moments. From a technical standpoint, Parasakthi is polished and purposeful.

Analysis

Despite a disclaimer stating that events are fictionalized, the film is deeply rooted in real historical anxieties. That is why even when certain scenes feel abruptly cut or muted, audiences instinctively understand what is being said between the frames. Parasakthi does not aim to please everyone—it takes a clear ideological stand. That bravery is both its greatest strength and its most debated aspect.

What Works

• • Performances that feel lived-in rather than performed

• • Electrifying, politically charged dialogues

• • Strong ideological clarity and emotional conviction

• • Immersive period art direction and technical finesse

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What Doesn’t Work

• • Overextended romantic portions in the first half

• • Excessive cuts and muted scenes that may confuse some viewers

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Rating: ⭐ 4 / 5

India Herald Percentage Meter 🔥 80% – Powerful Political Cinema

Final Word:

Parasakthi may not be flawless, but its fire is real. It burns with questions, anger, and identity—making it a film that will be discussed, debated, and remembered.