Jananam 1947-Pranayam Thudarunnu review: A moving story that reflects the realities of elderly people

Jananam 1947-Pranayam Thudarunnu isn’t a unique film. It has its share of moments that make people think about their parents. The Malayalam movie captures the lives of elderly people, who are sent to old-age homes by their children.

Many films like Ammakilikkoodu (2003) have been vocal about the older people living in old-age homes.

But what makes Jananam 1947-Pranayam Thudarunnu different from them is that it highlights the issues of elderly people from their perspective — through two characters belonging to two different classes.

Synopsis

Sivan (Jayaraj Kozhikode) is a farmer who works at the old-age home where Gowri (Leela Samson) — a teacher from an elite family — lives.

Gowri desperately wants to return to her home, but her son Vivek (played by Deepak Parambol) is not willing to welcome her. This bothers her. But the story gets a twist when Gowri and Sivan decide to get married.

The story doesn’t deviate anywhere and debutant director Abijith Asokan crafts it so meticulously that it engrosses the audience throughout the film.

Gowri and Sivan start living in the latter’s house. Vivek is not happy with her decision. However, Sivan’s friends bat for him.

The real beauty of Jananam 1947-Pranayam Thudarunnu unfolds when Sivan and Gowri start living together. Despite their backgrounds, the couple leaves no stone unturned to make things work.

This is the crux of the movie.

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Well-intentioned plot

Written and directed by Abijith Asokan, Jananam 1947-Pranayam Thudarunnu doesn’t have a complex plot and portrays the lives of common people.

Though Gowri and Sivan are the protagonists, Sivan’s life is explored more on screen. His life as a farmer, his two sons and friends get more screen space.

Vivek is showcased as a henpecked husband and nothing much is depicted about her background or family.

The story of Jananam 1947-Pranayam Thudarunnu is apt for the current times. In fact, many studies have found that older people in Kerala live alone in their homes as their children settle abroad in search of a better livelihood.

Sivan’s younger son Raghu and Gowri’s son Vivek represent people who consider their parents a burden. Their priorities change as they grow up.

The scene where Gowri reveals that Sivan has been a good friend to her is truly captivating.

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Highlights

The story and music are the two major highlights of the flick.

Abijith Asokan turns a mundane story into an extraordinary one by adding simple elements that leave audiences deeply moved.

There are no heroic acts and melodrama in the plot but the story of two septuagenarians is narrated in such a way that the viewers can easily relate to it.

The film has melodious songs scored by Govind Vasantha, which add charm to the story. Every single moment in the movie gets an extra mileage with the soothing background score.

The film also has some good visuals by Santhosh Anima.

For example, Sivan’s house is located near paddy fields. Various shots of the location and the night sequences are some of the takeaways from the movie.

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Performances

Jayaraj Kozhikode played small roles in several films. Being a veteran, he pulls off the character of Sivan with ease. His scenes, especially in the climax portions, are touching.

Classical dancer Leela Samson, as Gowri, is brilliant. She tugs at the heartstrings through her emotions, particularly the despair she experiences due to her loneliness and the happiness she derives in Sivan’s company.

Deepak Parambol, as Gowri’s son Vivek, is good.

Nandan Unni and Irshad, as Sivan’s sons, are impressive.

Comedian Nobi Marcose is decent.

Anu Sithara plays a key role in the film and does justice to her part.

Verdict

Jananam 1947-Pranayam Thudarunnu is a simple, heart-touching, and relevant film. It is a must-watch.

(Views expressed here are personal.)