I saw this black and white film when I was very young. Hence my review would be from memories. I still remember the great visuals, intense acting by P J Anthony, some great music and sounds, a very supportive cast,and wonderful photography that harmonized with the film. In fact Sukumaran who became a famous star was launched in this film, if my memory serves me right.
The story was very modern, and among the many scenes, I still remember the last scene where P J Anthony, as the oracle, having lost all faith and credo, dancing in full fury and gusto, in front of the Goddess, cutting his forehead with the sword, and finally spitting at the idol and falling down dead.
This scene if repeated in modern India today, I am sure it would not be accepted, as the sentiments of the people would be offended. But in those days I remembered people like my Dad, would sit in the evenings and discuss the film, and its originality.
The early 70 did bring originality all over the world. The hippies, Rock music, LSD, a blend of the good, the bad and the ugly. For me Nirmalayam the film will always be in my mind as a good trend setter, but unfortunately very few films match this genre of film-making.
MT Vasudevan Nair you have written countless stories and scripts, but Nirmalayam, you have outdone yourself Naveen Chandran R naveenchandran1@gmail.com
