Many modern Tamil writers chose to specialize in specific genres, but Rangarajan, writing under the pen name Sujatha (to avoid confusion with the already established author Ra. Ki. Rangarajan), uniquely embraced a wide array of literary forms. Sujatha's Tamil literary career spanned more than four decades, showcasing his versatility and talent.
Twenty-eight years ago, the film "Indian" captivated audiences, not only with its compelling theme but also with Ulaganayagan Kamal Haasan’s stellar performance as an aged vigilante and director Shankar’s visionary storytelling. Many speculate about why and how Shankar's recent works seem to lack the boldness and originality that once defined his visual imagination. A significant factor often cited is the absence of Shankar’s close collaborator, Sujatha.
Shankar, who directed several blockbuster movies with Sujatha, found it challenging to replicate the magic of the beloved 1996 film "Indian." The late, renowned Tamil writer played a crucial role in Shankar's success, providing essential story elements and working extensively in the writing department. Their partnership resulted in not just hits but also unforgettable films such as "Indian," "Anniyan," "Boys," "Mudhalvan," "Jeans," "Shivaji the Boss," and "Enthiran."
Recently, social media has been abuzz with discussions about Sujatha's influence and how Shankar's collaborations with him consistently produced outstanding results. An engineer by profession, Sujatha's career spanned over four decades, during which he excelled as an author, screenwriter, and producer. He was Shankar's go-to person for dialogues, often providing critical input for scripts. Their fruitful partnership ended with Sujatha's passing in 2008.
Playwright Crazy Mohan once praised Sujatha, stating:
"He is one of the most multifaceted writers in Tamil. His writing was terrific, consistent, and extremely informative. He could write just about anything with amazing ease. Sujatha was certainly a genius."
Indeed, Sujatha's legacy as a literary genius endures, and his contributions to Tamil cinema and literature remain unparalleled.
Source / Image Credit : indiancinema , TheNewStuff