Keralavarma Pazhassiraja (Malayalam) - Epic on the Malabar Rebellion

 Keralavarma Pazhassiraja 2009

by

Hariharan

When Haider Ali occupied Malabar in 1774, the Raja of Kottayam fled and found asylum. Between 1774-92, it was Pahzassi Raja who led the rebellion against this occupation. He had an understanding with the Company, which was not observed by the latter. The British promoted Kerala Varma's uncle to the throne of Kottayam, who allowed the former to levy oppressive taxes upon the locals. This led to a massive rebellion in which the British face huge reverses.

Later, they won over or killed most of his supporters. Kerala Varma refused to surrender and died a heroic death. He is famous as the Kerala Singham. 

Mammooty brings alive the role of Kerala Varma in his full glory. MT Vasudevan Nair wrote the script of the film. Hariharan has given his best shot as the Director.Cinematography is first rate. But a bit of sentimentalism and clumsy fight scenes mar the march of the film towards greatness. 

KVPR was awarded the Best Malayalam Film at the National Film Awards.