In a compelling tale of courage and patriotism set to hit theaters this Deepavali, the film “Amaran” chronicles the extraordinary life of Major Mukund Varadarajan. Actor Sivakarthikeyan stars in the titular role, capturing the valor and humanity of the army officer who left an indelible mark on India’s military history. The film, helmed by director Rajkumar Periasamy, is a testament not only to the bravery of its protagonist but also explores the intimate facets of his life, from his formative years to his tragic end.
The genesis of “Amaran” can be traced back to 2014 when a touching video emerged online. It depicted an armyman teaching his three-year-old daughter the powerful and evocative Tamil song “Achamillai Achamillai” by poet Subramania Bharati. The man in the video was none other than Major Mukund Varadarajan, whose heroic life and tragic death during a counter-insurgency operation in Kashmir left a lasting impression on Rajkumar. Mukund was a soldier who saw beyond the battlefield, instilling indomitable courage in even the youngest minds.
Tragically, Major Varadarajan lost his life while he was leading his unit, the 44 Rashtriya Rifles, in the Kashmir valley. His bravery was recognized with the Ashok Chakra, India’s highest peacetime military decoration, awarded posthumously. Rajkumar Periasamy was deeply moved by Mukund’s story, from his commitment to the nation to the subtle details that framed his character — both as a soldier and a family man. “The song he taught his daughter speaks volumes about his values and ideals,” Rajkumar observed, underscoring the profound personal dedication Mukund displayed.
For many, Major Mukund Varadarajan is immortalized as the gallant Indian hero who was cut down in his prime. However, “Amaran” aims to delve deeper, embellishing his story with personal anecdotes from his student life at the renowned Madras Christian College. This period was transformative for Mukund, not just for the academic vigor it provided but also as the time he met Indhu Rebecca Varghese, his future wife, played by Sai Pallavi in the film.
Sivakarthikeyan’s casting as Major Mukund is a significant milestone in the actor’s career. Known for his versatility, Sivakarthikeyan underwent a profound transformation for the role, channeling both the physical and emotional resilience of Mukund.
. According to Rajkumar, “This is not just another Sivakarthikeyan movie; it is pivotal in showcasing a turning point in his career, bringing out a depth perhaps unseen before.”
The film’s production was spearheaded by veteran actor Kamal Haasan, who himself was captivated by the narrative. “When Rajkumar shared Mukund’s story with me, it struck a deep chord. I felt a wishful yearning to have shared decades of my life with such a noble soul,” Kamal Haasan reminisced. Kamal’s commitment to bringing this story to the big screen stems from a shared appreciation for the sacrifice and valor displayed by Major Varadarajan.
Filming took the crew into the heart of Kashmir, turning the challenging environment into an integral component of the narrative. As Rajkumar describes, “Kashmir is not just a backdrop; it is a character in the film, embodying the conflicts and challenges faced by soldiers like Mukund.” Despite the logistical and political complexities of shooting in such a sensitive area, the support from the Indian Army was unwavering. The first day of shooting, on May 4, 2023, remains etched in the memories of the crew; a solemn puja held at the 44 Rashtriya Rifles headquarters set a tone of reverence and honor for the journey ahead.
Aside from its central tribute to a national hero, “Amaran” also centers on the pivotal role Indhu Rebecca Varghese played in Mukund’s life. Sai Pallavi’s portrayal stresses the emotional undertones that enriched their relationship. The film defies the notion of separating the soldier from his personal life, highlighting Indhu’s unwavering support and love as vital aspects of Mukund’s existence. In respecting this, Sai Pallavi insisted on the integrity of her scenes, ensuring they remain untouched in the editing process.
As “Amaran” prepares for its theatrical release on October 31, the film promises to leave audiences with a profound sense of patriotism and reflection on the values Major Mukund Varadarajan stood for. His journey from a college student to a revered army officer is a narrative of inspiration and sacrifice, bound to resonate deeply with viewers across the spectrum, reaffirming the spirit of courage he embodied until his last breath.
