Perumal Desam is a beautiful village basking in luxuriant greens, something you usually come across in rural Kerala. But what marks it apart is the absence of politics and political parties. And, Angane Thanne Nethave Anjettennam Pinnale, Ajith Poojappura’s debut outing, is set in this imaginary village. “It’s basically a political satire. The film shows what happens when politics is introduced to a place which has so far stayed away from it,” says the director.
Even in this century, the people of Perumal Desam like to live under the protection of Perumals, their benevolent landlords. “Shekhara Perumal, who was the village head two generations back, wanted the villagers to produce everything they need for sustenance. Moreover, he instructed that no political party should be allowed to divide his people,” he says.
Today it’s his grandson Karthikaraja Perumal who takes care of the village. “He is the beloved ‘Karthi ettan’ of the people and the entire village adores him. But there are some people who doesn’t like the popularity and authority enjoyed by Perumals. One of them decides to bring politics into the village and form parties and unions to break the rule of Perumals. What follows form the crux of Angane Thanne Nethave Anjettennam Pinnale,” explains Ajith who is also the scenarist of the film.
Narain plays the main lead as Karthikaraja Perumal while popular small screen actor Shanavas, who has played the character of Rudran in Kumkumapoovu, appears in another key role. While Meera Nandan is the heroine, Sai Kumar and Suraj Venjaramood step into other important roles. “The main flavour of the film is humour and music will be another highlight,” Ajith adds.
Though it’s a total entertainer, the film also delivers a message. “It shows what kind of politics and politicians a society needs,” he says. Angane Thanne Nethave Anjettennam Pinnale, produced by Suresh Nair under the banner of Greenland Visions, will hit the screens this weekend.