A poignant video from 2014, capturing an Indian armyman teaching his three-year-old daughter the patriotic Tamil song ‘Achamillai Achamillai’ by poet Subramania Bharati, sparked filmmaker Rajkumar Periasamy’s interest. At the time an aspiring director, Rajkumar was driven by curiosity to learn more about this dedicated armyman. This initial intrigue eventually led to the creation of ‘Amaran,’ a film starring Sivakarthikeyan, that is set for release this Deepavali.
The cinematic venture ‘Amaran’ is a tribute to Major Mukund Varadarajan, an Indian Army officer who was martyred during counter-insurgency operations in Kashmir. Leading his unit, the 44 Rashtriya Rifles, Major Mukund laid down his life in a battle marked by valor. For his supreme sacrifice, he was posthumously awarded the Ashok Chakra, the highest peacetime military honor in India. Rajkumar articulates, “Mukund cherished patriotic values, emphasizing them through actions like teaching his daughter an iconic song, all while unaware of the fate that lay ahead.”
For many across the nation, Major Mukund Varadarajan is celebrated as an inspiring hero. ‘Amaran’ not only depicts his courageous actions but also delves deeper, shedding light on the man behind the uniform. It explores his formative student years at Madras Christian College, where he crossed paths with his future wife, Indhu Rebecca Varghese, a role portrayed by Sai Pallavi. Rajkumar explains, “People come to the cinema looking for larger-than-life experiences, and Major Mukund’s life was replete with such moments. His indomitable spirit as a soldier was rooted deeply in his character.”
Collaborating on ‘Amaran’ with Sivakarthikeyan was a natural progression. Known for his respect towards the armed forces, Sivakarthikeyan was not only drawn to the story but ready to undergo a marked transformation for the role. Rajkumar comments, “This film stands out as a significant milestone, indicating a pivotal transformation in Sivakarthikeyan’s career.”
Sai Pallavi’s portrayal of Indhu Rebecca Varghese is essential to the narrative.
. So critical is her role, in fact, that she reportedly signed a clause ensuring her scenes remain intact. “Indhu’s story is the emotional core of the film,” says Rajkumar. “She played an indispensable role in Mukund’s life, providing encouragement and unwavering support. Post the shooting of the intense climax, I advised Mukund’s family against watching the film, fearing painful memories might resurface. However, they have found solace in speaking about him, recalling joyful memories with a smile—a testament to their resilience.”
A significant part of ‘Amaran’ unfolds in the breathtaking landscapes of Kashmir, a place that Rajkumar insists is more than just a backdrop but rather a “character” in itself. The director vividly remembers the inaugural day of the shoot on May 4, 2023, at the 44 Rashtriya Rifles headquarters. In a touching homage, a puja was conducted at a memorial honoring the 44 RR martyrs, organized by Colonel Gaurav Dixit, the commanding officer. Rajkumar reflects, “The challenging terrain of Kashmir and its politically sensitive environment posed hurdles during filming. Yet, the immense support from soldiers was material in overcoming these challenges.”
Produced by the legendary Kamal Haasan, ’Amaran’ was a story that resonated deeply with him. Recalling his pivotal meeting with Kamal, Rajkumar shares, “Upon hearing Mukund’s story, Kamal was profoundly moved, expressing that he wished he could offer 30 years of his life to this brave soldier.”
As anticipation builds ahead of its release on October 31, ‘Amaran’ promises to be a compelling portrayal of bravery and humanity. This Deepavali, audiences will witness an emotive journey, not just into the life of a hero, but into the essence of the ideals he stood for—bearing the spirit of courage, honor, and love, embodied through Mukund and those who knew him best. The film’s touching narrative, powerful performances, and heart-stirring sequences are expected to leave a lasting impression on viewers, echoing the enduring legacy of a national hero.
