‘Nandan’ Honored by Delhi Tamil Sangam as a Film That Sparked Significant Social Change
The Delhi Tamil Sangam has honored the film Nandan, starring Sasikumar, recognizing it as a movie that brought about social change. Directed by Ra. Saravanan and released in 2024, Nandan tells the story of the struggles faced by Dalit panchayat presidents who, despite assuming office, are often denied due recognition and authority. In the film’s climax, numerous Dalit panchayat presidents from Tamil Nadu shared their painful experiences and grievances on screen; this sequence created a massive stir across the state upon the film’s release. The film’s message of social justice was welcomed by film personalities such as Bharathiraja, Bhagyaraj, Rajinikanth, and Vairamuthu, as well as political leaders including Thirumavalavan, Annamalai, Seeman, Anbumani Ramadoss, and Aadav Arjuna. Following the film’s release, the Tamil Nadu government issued decisive orders ensuring that Dalit panchayat presidents across the state could hoist the national flag freely and exercise their rightful powers. On Republic Day last year, in a historic first, Dalit panchayat presidents across Tamil Nadu successfully hoisted the flag—an event hailed by leaders like Seeman as a “social revolution” sparked by the film Nandan. In recognition of this impact, the Delhi Tamil Sangam honored both actor Sasikumar and director Ra. Saravanan at a special felicitation ceremony.
Shah Faesal (IAS), Director at the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, attended the event held by the Delhi Tamil Sangam on the evening of June 20, 2024, as the special guest. Delhi Tamil Sangam General Secretary Sathya Asokan, Joint President Mahendran, Producer Siva, and several other office-bearers of the Delhi Tamil Sangam participated in the event. Shah Faesal (IAS), Director at the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, remarked, “Tamil films evoke profound emotions and accurately reflect society. Celebrating quality films helps society flourish.” Joint President Mahendran stated, “It takes immense courage for a lead actor to take on a role like the one in Nandan. Sasikumar has done so with a genuine sense of social responsibility. I was astounded by the scenes where he appeared with betel-leaf juice staining his mouth. Just as ‘Sappani’ was a defining role for Kamal, ‘Nandan’ is for Sasikumar; he completely immersed himself in the character of a Dalit Panchayat President, enduring physical blows and hardship in the process. Nandan will garner not only the Delhi Tamil Sangam’s recognition but many more awards. Such works that strengthen society are essential for today’s generation.” During the event, actor Sasikumar and director Ra. Saravanan answered questions from the gathered Tamil Sangam members. “The hardships I endured during the film’s making were all made worthwhile by the appreciation of the people of Delhi. After the film’s release, a female Panchayat President held my hands and wept, saying that a new dawn had arrived for them; those tears were as valuable as a National Award,” said Sasikumar. Director Ra. Saravanan added, “Cinema has always been intertwined with the very blood of the Tamil people—which is why they even elect their Chief Ministers from the film industry. The acclaim Nandan has received will inspire us to approach our future projects with even greater responsibility.”
Nandan was selected as a film that has brought about social change, and awards were presented to both Sasikumar and Ra. Saravanan. The Delhi Tamil Sangam is arranging a special screening of the film ‘Nandan’ next week, as it believes that the Gen Z generation should also watch such socially conscious films.
