Why should you watch Anbe Sivam?
In the world of cinema, there are films that entertain, and then there are films that leave an indelible mark on your soul, forever altering the way you perceive life. One such cinematic masterpiece is the Tamil film “Anbe Sivam,” directed by Sundar C and released in 2003. This heartwarming and thought-provoking movie not only captivated audiences with its storytelling and performances but also had a profound impact on my perspective on life. This article explains my opinion on Anbe Sivam and attempts to appreciate its beauty as I see it.
The Story of “Anbe Sivam”
“Anbe Sivam” is a poignant tale of two contrasting individuals, Nallasivam (played by Kamal Haasan) and Anbarasu (played by Madhavan), whose paths cross unexpectedly during a fateful journey. Nallasivam is a physically challenged and disfigured man with a witty and philosophical outlook on life, while Anbarasu is a young, self-centered businessman who prioritizes materialism over human values.
Their journey begins on a disastrous note, as they find themselves stuck due to a series of unfortunate events. As the story unfolds, it takes the audience on a rollercoaster of emotions, from humor to heartache. The film beautifully weaves together the themes of love, compassion, and the inherent goodness in humanity.
Power of Compassion
“Anbe Sivam” reminds us that compassion is a fundamental aspect of the human experience. Nallasivam, despite his physical challenges, radiates compassion and empathy towards everyone he encounters. His unwavering belief in the goodness of people serves as a stark contrast to Anbarasu’s materialistic and selfish worldview. Through their interactions, the film portrays how compassion has the potential to transform lives and bridge the gap between people from different walks of life.
What is success
Anbarasu initially measures success by the wealth he accumulates and the luxurious lifestyle he leads. However, his encounters with Nallasivam challenge his perception of success. The film prompts viewers to question whether material possessions alone can bring true happiness and fulfillment. “Anbe Sivam” encourages us to redefine success as something more profound and meaningful, emphasizing the importance of inner growth and genuine human connections.
Embracing Imperfections
Nallasivam’s character teaches us to embrace our imperfections and challenges, no matter how daunting they may seem. His resilience and sense of humor in the face of adversity remind us that life’s difficulties can be surmounted with a positive attitude. The film encourages us to look beyond physical appearances and societal norms to recognize the beauty within each individual.
The Universal Language of Love
One of the most compelling aspects of “Anbe Sivam” is its exploration of love as a universal language that transcends barriers of language, culture, and physical limitations. The deep bond that forms between Nallasivam and Anbarasu illustrates that love and friendship can flourish under the most unlikely circumstances. This message of unity and connection resonates with viewers, reminding us of the power of love to bring people together.
To sum up: Just watch it
“Anbe Sivam” is not just a film; it’s a life-altering experience that challenges our perceptions and inspires us to be better human beings. Through its compelling storytelling and unforgettable characters, the movie urges us to prioritize compassion, redefine success, embrace imperfections, and recognize the universal language of love. At various junctures during the movie, you will realize you are acting like Anbu in many situations while you should strive to adopt Sivam’s approach.
Kamal’s achievement with “Anbe Sivam” was in conveying the same message without becoming overly didactic or challenging the viewer’s personal beliefs. The film revealed how some relationships in life are intricately connected in the most unforeseen manner. This masterpiece left an indelible mark on my mind, reminding us that life’s true beauty lies in our ability to connect with and uplift one another. It is a timeless gem that continues to shine as a beacon of hope and inspiration, changing lives one viewer at a time.
When the movie came out in 2003, it was a flop at the box office. This can be due to the reason that people have often found it difficult to accept movies that walked a different path or were far ahead of their time. Today, Anbe Sivam ranks in IMDB’s list of top 10 Indian movies and continues to be rewatched, appreciated, and discussed even after almost 20 years.
Biggest takeaway: The literal journey that Nallasivam and Anbarasu embark upon is a metaphor for life itself. It teaches us that life is a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns. How we navigate this journey, the people we meet along the way, and the lessons we learn define our life’s true meaning. This is perfectly summed up in the lyrics of one of the songs that features in the movie that goes like this:
Manathiin neelam ethuvo athuvae
Vaazhvin neelamadaa
which translates to ‘Your life is only as big as your heart’
