Key Facts
Actor Ponvannan, known for his work in Tamil cinema, has penned a heartfelt tribute to legendary filmmaker Bharathiraja, who passed away recently. Ponvannan, who started as an assistant director under Bharathiraja, recalls their deep personal and professional bond spanning decades.
Details of the Tribute
In a candid recollection, Ponvannan shared that he had observed Bharathiraja's declining health for over a year. 'When news of his passing reached me, I wasn’t overcome by sadness; I was more relieved that he was finally free from pain,' he said. The actor described how memories of their time together have been replaying in his mind.
From Painter to Assistant Director
Ponvannan initially aspired to be a banner artist. Through art director Devadas, he met Bharathiraja, who immediately offered him a job as an assistant director. 'I didn’t enter the cinema industry to become an actor or director. I was a painter,' Ponvannan recalled.
Acting Career Boost
After failing as a director, Ponvannan asked Bharathiraja for an acting opportunity to sustain himself financially. Bharathiraja cast him in 'Kizhakku Vasal', where Ponvannan played a domestic helper. 'It was I who asked him for that opportunity,' he said. The scene where his character grabs a sickle earned him recognition.
Memorable Moments on Set
During the shoot of 'Kizhakku Mugam', Ponvannan played a brutish character. In one scene, he swung a chair at actor Janagaraj, which broke into pieces, scaring everyone. Later, a scene with Saranya (now his wife) involved throwing a rock; the unit was terrified he might actually hit her.
Impact and Legacy
Ponvannan described Bharathiraja as a 'wild plant' who grew roots by himself. 'He was stubborn, and while he gained a lot due to this quality, he also lost a lot,' he noted. Bharathiraja followed his intuition, often choosing rough locations over accessible ones and cutting beautiful scenes if they didn't fit.
Unmade Period Film
Ponvannan revealed a disappointment: a planned period film with Bharathiraja was scrapped in favor of a love story. 'I fought with him, but he fixated on making it a love story. To this day, I feel disappointed,' he said.
What Readers Should Know
- Ponvannan's favorite Bharathiraja film is 'Kizhakku Mugam' for its subtle performances and silence.
- Bharathiraja's editing pattern changed after that film, later revisited in 'Kizhakku Vasal'.
- Ponvannan's bond with Bharathiraja included love, anger, happiness, and respect, with periods of silence followed by reconciliations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Ponvannan?
Ponvannan is a Tamil actor and former assistant director who worked closely with filmmaker Bharathiraja.
What films did Ponvannan act in under Bharathiraja?
He acted in films like 'Kizhakku Vasal' and 'Kizhakku Mugam' directed by Bharathiraja.
How did Ponvannan describe Bharathiraja's personality?
He called Bharathiraja a 'wild plant' who grew on his own terms, stubborn yet intuitive.
What was Ponvannan's favorite Bharathiraja film?
He likes 'Kizhakku Mugam' the most for its subtle performances and silence in frames.