It is unfortunate that this remarkable work is never recalled by many while listing major works of Indian cinema. To me, it is India's answer to Bergman's "Winter Light." M T Vasudevan Nair, like Bergman, wrote and directed a film on a religious man questioning God. In one film the individual decides to take his life after spitting at God, in the other he continues his vocation with a questionable spirit of renewed faith.Nirmalayam won the top national honors but unfortunately never made the international marquee mainly because of the subject ("Winter Light" also never won awards, though it was Bergman's personal favorite until he made "Fanny and Alexander"). It deserved better marketing as its content is universal in a wider sense of secular religious sensibilities.The film is gripping because of its endearing performance (theatrical realism in contrast to sophisticated subdued realism of the Bergman players) that a majority of Asian audiences prefer. Yet, the theatrical performance was not over the top and the late PJ Anthony won the acclaim in Kerala more than across India for a performance that was gradually forgotten.The film is equally remarkable for its screenplay (with an unforgettable ending), its use of sound and the art direction. It was a fine debut for a filmmaker but unfortunately this achievement has been eclipsed by better marketing by less talented Indian filmmakers.

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 [email protected]