Since 16 January 2024, the teaser for the debut directorial venture “Kulandhai C/O Kavundampalayam,” featuring actor Ranjith, has stirred controversy. The teaser, which delves into the theme of “Fake Love” (Nadaga Kadhal in Tamil), a significant topic of discussion in Tamil Nadu akin to Love Jihad, has been received with mixed reactions.
In its 30-second duration, the teaser dialogues address Fake Love, OCK party (interpreted by some as VCK party) and its leader, as well as the contentious issue of beef consumption. These themes have sparked heated debate on social media melting down Dravidianists, pro-Periyarists, and sympathizers alike. Recently, on 11 May 2024, the trailer was released, generating widespread discussion and gaining momentum across various social media platforms.
The dialogues spoken in the brief preview of this movie, spanning just 30 seconds, are, “All of us have grown up eating beef. Once they (women) taste us, they will lie at our feet. I’m OCK state chief… Caste is not necessary when falling in love, caste is not necessary when going to the register office, Even you don’t need father and mother… Equality”
The two minute trailer has several other punches.
“Will any father accept his daughter’s love? If you want to make him accept, finish the matter (intercourse) immediately, their dignity is their daughters/women” goes one dialogue.
This dialogue is an oblique reference to Pa. Ranjith who in his maiden feature film Attakathi had inserted dialogue in which the protagonist is instigated by his relative to “finish the matter” (have sex) with woman he’s stalking.
Another dialogues goes like this, “Farming in the soil is not a big thing, A real farmer is the one who farms in women’s stomach”.
Here is another dialogue – “We all have grown bodies by eating beef, beauty doesn’t matter, being manly is enough. We have the stuff and glamour (Namma kitta sarakkum midukkum iruku – a reference to Thirumavalavan’s controversial speech). Marry the rich. Slay even god if he asks why.”
These dialogues were deliberately crafted to hit back at the Dravidian filmmakers such as Pa. Ranjith, Mari Selvaraj, and Vetrimaaran, who promoted their caste ideologies under the guise of cinema.
Lately, CS Amudhan, a Dravidian sympathizer lamented in his official X platform regarding the trailer of “Kulandhai C/O Kavundampalayam.”
Without explicitly mentioning the film, he advised against giving attention to what he deemed a dreadful film. He emphasized that the outrage fuels the attention the creators seek and suggested letting it fade away without feeding it with attention. CS Amudhan stated, “I understand your anger but please do not validate that absolute garbage of a film by QTing that trailer. Your outrage is the only thing they are counting on. Let it die a slow, humiliating, painful death without the oxygen of your attention.”
I understand your anger but please do not validate that absolute garbage of a film by QTing that trailer. Your outrage is the only thing they are counting on. Let it die a slow, humiliating, painful death without the oxygen of your attention.
— CS Amudhan (@csamudhan) May 15, 2024
The central premise for “Kavundampalayam” seems to grooming of women through false promises of marriage and weaponization of romantic relationships for vested interests.
During a recent press conference, Ranjith, a actor turned director, described his latest film “Kulandhai C/O Kavundampalayam,” as a narrative centered on the complexities of fake love. He emphasized that the movie delves into the significance of cherishing a daughter, advocating for equality and social justice, and showcasing the distinctive culture of the Kongu community. Having taken on the roles of writer, director, and actor in the film, Ranjith proudly highlighted the inclusion of numerous talented performers, including well-known figures like Iman Annachi.
Contrary to being labeled solely as a social commentary, he asserted that the film encapsulates a multifaceted portrayal of themes such as egalitarianism, nurturing parental relationships, and the intrinsic value of love, devoid of commercial motives. Ranjith expressed confidence in the film’s reception upon its release, predicting it would be embraced by audiences. He revealed that the storyline addresses the unsettling reality of caste-based extortion, drawing from his observations over the past two decades, which prompted his hiatus from acting for seven years. Extensive research underpinned the film’s development, enabling Ranjith to authentically capture nuanced societal dynamics. Additionally, he clarified that a scene in the teaser featuring “OCK Party” is not affiliated with any political party but rather refers to sarcasm. Contrary to misconceptions, the film does not propagate caste animosity but rather champions principles of equality and camaraderie. Ranjith further emphasized cultural nuances, noting the prevalence of beef consumption in the region and dispelling notions of derogatory portrayal or vilification. Instead, the film aims to shed light on individuals who exploit others under false pretenses, fostering dialogue and reflection on ethical conduct within society.
Even at the audio launch event of the film Praveen Gandhi Hitting out Dravidianist directors Pa. Ranjith and Vetrimaaran, said “There’s a director called Pa. Ranjith and another called Vetrimaaran and there are a few more. Only after these directors grew, cinema started to wither. Who knows who is sitting beside me! All of us clap and whistle together in a cinema hall. One should never say caste in cinema.”
Pointing out to a dialogue from the film which goes like – “Farmers don’t just plant seeds in land. They also do it in the womb“, Praveen Gandhi said that this dialogue didn’t come out of the blue for the director but just a reflection of how a large number of people have been indoctrinated and mislead by leaders belonging to the Dalit community for the mere sake of votes.
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