Mari Selvaraj’s ‘Vaazhai’ Explores Childhood and Social Issues

Mari Selvaraj’s latest film, ‘Vaazhai’, presents a poignant exploration of childhood against the backdrop of social challenges. The narrative centers around a tender-hearted boy named Sivanaindhan, portrayed by Ponvel, who navigates his life in the village of Karunkulam with his family.

Sivanaindhan is depicted as a child burdened by the realities of his environment, which includes a difficult home life and the necessity to work in a plantain plantation. His school period serves as an escape, allowing him to indulge in typical childhood joys like scoring A-grades and experiencing innocent interactions with his peers, particularly his friend Sekar and his crush, teacher Poongodi, played by Nikhila Vimal.

The film cleverly intertwines moments of levity with deeper reflections on life, employing humor that resonates with the audience while addressing serious themes such as child labor and systemic oppression. The dialogue and scenarios reflect a genuine connection to the lives of the characters, as many scenes emanate from the personal experiences of the director.

‘Vaazhai’ is not solely a story of childhood; it also addresses the plight of the plantation workers through the subplot involving Kani, played by Kalaiyarasan, who actively fights for workers’ rights against an exploitative system. This dual narrative underscores the impact of socio-economic factors on both children and adults alike.

The film’s cinematography by Theni Eswar captures the essence of rural life vividly, highlighting the juxtaposition of nature’s beauty with human struggles. Furthermore, the music by Santhosh Narayanan elevates the emotional depth of the story, complementing the visual storytelling with evocative melodies.