Pa Ranjith on Thangalaan: 'It's not easy to appreciate my politics'

Filmmaker Pa Ranjith wears his politics on his sleeve. He never disassociates himself from the ideology he believes in, and he continues to propagate it through his movies. Despite being a contrarian and using the medium of cinema to discuss distressing social and political issues, his films are not considered independent, and reserved to be watched by a few discerning audiences.

Ranjith has worked with some of the biggest superstars in India, and his movies have clicked with mass audiences, giving him a unique edge over his peers who also tackle these issues in their films.

Speaking at the pre-release event of Thangalaan, Ranjith expressed his gratitude to audiences who have appreciated his movies, acknowledging it was not an easy task.

ALSO READ: Pa Ranjith on casting Vikram in Thangalaan: 'I never write for stars'

"Thanks for the love you are pouring on me. It's not easy to appreciate my politics and what I am trying to convey through my art. In India, we have a lot of separation and inequality. We have been fighting for over 100 years through whatever medium is available. I fight through cinema," Ranjith said.

Ranjith also appreciated Chiyaan Vikram, along with other members of the cast, for delivering stellar performances. "Thangalaan is not a regular movie. Our people struggled a lot before independence. That struggle was not just for getting gold, but freedom. Vikram has done a fantastic job. When I wrote the character, I wondered who would play this role. But Vikram sir easily understood the character, the world, and the politics of Thangalaan. I am blessed to have an actor like you," he added.

Vikram plays the tribal chief in Thangalaan, who is enlisted by the British forces to mine gold, invoking forces that are beyond the ken and imagination of the invaders.

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