Nallavan Vazhvan

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Nallavan Vazhvan is a 1961 Tamil crime thriller directed and produced by P. Neelakantan. It stars M. G. Ramachandran (MGR) and Rajasulochana, with a screenplay by C. N. Annadurai from a story by Na. Pandurangan. Cinematography was by G. Durai, and the music was composed by T. R. Pappa. The film was produced by Arasu Pictures and released on 31 August 1961. It was MGR’s 50th film.

Plot
Muthu, a convict sentenced to death on false murder charges, escapes from prison to clear his name. Disguised as a shaman, he investigates a case centered on Nallasivam, a wealthy local figure who seems above suspicion. He is aided and opposed by Chandra—the woman he once saved and loves—her mother, and Chenbagame, who treats him like a brother. The inspector Madhavan, Chandra’s husband, pursues Muthu, convinced of his guilt, while Nallasivam’s hired men roam the region to kill him. The truth rests on a single witness who could exonerate Muthu, and he must reach that witness in time.

Production and music
Nallavan Vazhvan was produced and directed by P. Neelakantan for Arasu Pictures. The screenplay was by C. N. Annadurai, based on a story by Na. Pandurangan. The soundtrack was composed by T. R. Pappa, and this film marked Vaali’s first lyrics for a Ramachandran project. A song from the film, Sirikindraal Indru Sirikindraal, included lines referring to the rising sun and the DMK symbol.

Release and reception
The film released on 31 August 1961 but did not perform well at the box office, running about 80 days in theaters. Kalki’s critic Kanthan gave it a negative review, noting that the film’s short runtime was its only redeeming feature.