We are excited to share the latest article by V. V. Prasad, published in Thirai Mozhi. This edition highlights the forgotten roots of Tamil cinema through the work of artists and performers who shaped its early visual identity.
🎬 What This Article Covers
1. R. Pathmanaban – Early Mythological Artist
The article begins by exploring the contributions of R. Pathmanaban, towards Tamil cinema. His films were based on the events or stories derived from 2 epics Ramayana and Mahabaratha
His film Sethu bandhanam is discussed which showcased the building of Sethu bridge by Lord Rama’s devotees and friends from Kishkintha
2. PB Rangachari and M.D. Parthasarathy – Iconic Mythological Actors
Prasad then highlights the then famous P. B. Rangachari and actor turned carnatic musician M.D. Parthasarathy, 2 of them portraying the roles of Ravanan and Hanuman respectively in the film Sethu Banthanaam.
3. The article discusses about Padmanabhan’s:
- Early life and background
- His transition from film exhibitor into film maker
- His role in influencing the kick start of careers to Legends like K.Subramanium and Raja sandow
A rare archival photograph accompanies this section.
📖 Read the Full Article
👉https://thiraimozhi.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/6_June-1-2-3-6-7-8-Pages.pdf
👤 About the Author: V. V. Prasad
V. V. Prasad is an Electronics and Communication Engineer from Chennai and currently serves as a Researcher and Archivist at The Cinema Resource Centre (TCRC).
He oversees the preservation and digitisation of non-film materials such as photographs, magazines, lobby cards, and songbooks, with a deep passion for researching South Indian cinema history.
The Cinema Resource Centre (TCRC) 