Readers Write In #609: A Flight’s Unexpected Gem: Exploring ‘Kadaisi Vivasayi’ at 30,000 Feet

By Jithendar Anandan

During my recent flight from Chennai to New York, I stumbled upon a movie that immediately caught my attention – “Kadaisi Vivasayi.” The title and the presence of Vijay Sethupathi intrigued me.

The movie’s standout aspect is the remarkable cast and the landscapes they chose to shoot in. It felt like watching a documentary, showcasing real people living their normal lives in the village. While one might expect rural audiences to connect deeply with the story, I believe even urban dwellers, who have either migrated from villages or heard tales of their ancestors’ rural lives, will find fond memories resonating through the film.

As someone who tends to get emotional even during the winning speeches in Super Singers finals, witnessing an innocent farmer being falsely accused, detained, and held behind bars hit me hard. I did my best not to burst into tears and make my fellow passengers uncomfortable, though the emotions were overwhelming at times especially the scenes with the magistrate and Maayandi. (thankful for the napkins and blankets provided on the flight).

What I admired about the film was that the director didn’t conclude it on a sad note, with Maayandi’s demise in court. Instead, he offered hope and positivity to farmers, suggesting they can go from struggling to thriving again with the blessings of their deity.

While I’m aware of box office collections, I genuinely hope Kadaisi Vivasayi receives the recognition it deserves over time and goes on to win major awards. Fate dealt a cruel blow when I later discovered that the lead protagonist, who portrayed the farmer, had passed away before the movie’s release. It’s disheartening to think that he isn’t here to receive the love and appreciation he so deserved. Life can be incredibly unfair to many of us. 

Standing in the long immigration queue at the bustling New York airport, mentally preparing for the hustle ahead, my heart still dwelled in the tranquility of Mayandi and his village.It’s not too often you come across a film that feels as authentic and organic as this one. Kudos to Manikandan and the team!