Last updated: 23 Apr 2026


Tamil · Action, Drama, Romance
2h 40m · 25 Oct 1992
Music: Ilaiyaraaja | DOP: P. C. Sreeram | Writer: Kamal Haasan
Ratings
Our Rating
3.5
Thevar Magan follows the story of Sakthivel (Kamal Haasan), a well-educated man who returns to his village in Tamil Nadu from the city. He is caught between modern values and traditional responsibilities as he takes on the mantle of leadership from his father, Periya Thevar (Sivaji Ganesan). The film explores themes of family honor, caste dynamics, rural politics, and the struggle between personal desires and societal duties. As tensions rise in the village, Sakthivel must navigate violent feuds and uphold his family's legacy while trying to bring peace and progress.
Thevar Magan is a masterfully crafted drama that blends intense storytelling with rich cultural context. The screenplay is tightly written, with a strong narrative arc that balances emotional depth and social commentary. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the first half to establish characters and village politics effectively, while the second half escalates the conflict with gripping tension and powerful confrontations.
The film’s music by Ilaiyaraaja is evocative and deeply rooted in folk traditions, complementing the rural setting and enhancing the emotional impact. The songs are memorable and well-integrated into the narrative, while the background score subtly underscores the film’s dramatic moments without overwhelming them. P. C. Sreeram’s cinematography captures the rustic beauty of the village and the intensity of the characters’ emotions with equal finesse.
Overall, Thevar Magan stands out for its authentic portrayal of rural Tamil Nadu, compelling performances, and a screenplay that respects the audience’s intelligence. The film’s blend of tradition and modernity, along with its moral dilemmas, makes it a timeless classic in Tamil cinema.
Kamal Haasan: Powerful and nuanced portrayal of Sakthivel, balancing vulnerability and strength.
Sivaji Ganesan: Commanding presence as Periya Thevar, delivering gravitas and emotional depth.
Nassar: Strong supporting role with a convincing portrayal of village antagonist.
Revathi: Subtle and expressive performance adding emotional layers.
Gautami Tadimalla: Graceful and natural, complementing the lead roles.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Bharathan’s direction is assured and sensitive, bringing out the emotional core of the story while maintaining a realistic portrayal of village life. His writing and narrative style emphasize character-driven drama and moral complexity, avoiding melodrama and clichés.
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Our Rating
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| Award | Category | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| National Film Award | Best Feature Film in Tamil | Recognized for excellence in Tamil cinema |
| Filmfare Awards South | Best Tamil Film | Awarded for overall production and impact |
| Filmfare Awards South | Best Actor – Tamil | Kamal Haasan for his performance as Sakthivel |
| Type | Value |
|---|---|
| Positive | 85% |
| Neutral | 10% |
| Negative | 5% |
Thevar Magan received widespread critical acclaim for its storytelling, performances, and technical aspects. Critics praised Kamal Haasan’s dual role as actor and producer, and the film’s respectful treatment of Tamil rural traditions. It is often cited as one of the finest Tamil films of the early 1990s.
Final Box-Office Result
Kshatriya Putrudu released on 25 October 1992 (1992).
Kshatriya Putrudu is declared a ABOVE AVERAGE at the box office.
Kshatriya Putrudu OTT release date not announced yet.
Kshatriya Putrudu directed by Bharathan. Produced by Kamal Haasan.
Kshatriya Putrudu stars Kamal Haasan, Sivaji Ganesan, Nassar, Revathi, Gautami Tadimalla.
Tollybo rates Kshatriya Putrudu 3.5/5. Verdict: ABOVE AVERAGE.
Music for Kshatriya Putrudu composed by Ilaiyaraaja.
Kshatriya Putrudu — Genre: Action, Drama, Romance, Runtime: 160 minutes, Language: Tamil.