Remembering Singeetham Srinivasa Rao

Singeetam Srinivasa Rao. File | Photo Credit: M.Vedhan

A sharp mind, a quirky sense of humour, a young heart and a perennial desire to experiment with his movies defined Singeetham Srinivasa Rao. As he departs at 94, he leaves behind a body of work that has a sense of permanence.

Having found an ally in Kamal Haasan, Singeetham discovered a sense of freedom, especially in the Tamil industry. A hero being visually challenged was never the template for films, but the duo smirked at such notions through the 1981 flick Raaja Paarvai. For many fans the song Andhi mazhai from this lovely film, remains a ear-worm.

A celluloid venture without dialogues? Bring it on, said Singeetham and along with Kamal, dished out Pesum Padam, also called Pushpak, Pushpaka Vimana and Pushpaka Vimanam. The 1987 silent film had different titles across languages, just for the fans to connect.

The film, extensively shot in Bengaluru, proved that the right visuals, actors and background score could mask the absence of the uttered word. And can ice be used as a weapon of murder? Apparently it works, as evident in one crazy scene.