Nandhi Varman showcases the secrets of Pallava empire: Director Perumal Varadhan

The debutant director decided to make a film on the Pallavas after hearing stories about the paranormal activities near Tamil Nadu's Gingee Fort.

ByAyyappa Prasad

Published Oct 15, 2022 | 4:15 PMUpdatedOct 15, 2022 | 4:15 PM

nandhi varman tamil movie

After Mani Ratnam’s Ponniyin Selvan-1 shed light on the Chola dynasty, the forthcoming Tamil flick Nandhi Varman is all set to talk about the Pallavas, especially King Nandivarman.

Sources say that the entire script of Nandhi Varman was ready even before PS-1 was announced.

The film marks the directorial debut of Perumal Varadhan. It stars Kavalthurai Ungal Nanban-fame Suresh Ravi and TV actor Asha Gowda of Gokulathil Seethai fame.

Nizhalgal Ravi, Bose Venkat, Aadukalam Murugadoss, Gajaraj, Ambani Shankar, Mullai Kothandam, Meesai Rajendran, Asuran Appu, Bommi ,Rajan and JSK Gopi will be seen key roles.

Perumal is the cinematographer. Arun Kumar of AK Film Factory is the producer. Jerad Felix is the music director. Saregama has acquired the audio rights.

Varadhan decided to do a film on Pallavas and King Nandivarman after hearing stories about paranormal activity around Gingee Fort in Tamil Nadu.

The inspiration for the film

“During my visit to Gingee Fort, I came across an old man who spoke about the paranormal encounters he experienced in the area. The next day, another person shared similar experiences, and so did the local residents. This piqued my interest,” Varadhan told South First.

Varadhan started researching the supernatural incidents reported near the Fort after learning that the Pallavas ruled that region.

“Eventually, I learned that Nandivarman was more prominent than all the Pallava kings who ruled the region. Hence, I titled this movie after him. I don’t want this flick to be a mere supernatural thriller, but I’m keen to showcase the beauty and secrets of the Pallava empire.”

Sadly, the emblems and history of the Pallavas have been destroyed over the years. “How many people know that the pillars at Puducherry beach were taken from Gingee Fort?” he asked.

“Mahabalipuram was the first tourist spot in India to get UNESCO recognition, but we are still unaware of the great Pallavas and their contribution to society,” he pointed out.

Varadhan claimed that even the film’s unit faced strange happenings during the shoot.

“The crew excavated a face-like rock while trying to erect the set near the Fort. Soon after, heavy rains lashed the area and the set was washed away,” he recalled.