Thirteen years after its initial blockbuster run, Ajith Kumar's cult classic film 'Mankatha' has triumphantly returned to the big screens, igniting a wave of nostalgic fervor among fans across Tamil Nadu and Kerala. The re-release has been met with thunderous applause, whistles, confetti showers, and nonstop cheering, proving that the love for this iconic movie remains undiminished even after more than a decade.
Fan Frenzy Leads to Police Intervention
However, the celebrations took an unexpected turn during one of the screenings at Karpagam theatre in Coimbatore. According to a report by India Today, an overenthusiastic fan burst crackers inside the hall during Ajith Kumar's dramatic introduction scene, creating a chaotic atmosphere. The incident reportedly necessitated the entry of police officials to manage the crowd and restore order, highlighting the intense passion surrounding the film's return.
Ajith Kumar's Iconic Role as Vinayak Mahadev
One of the biggest highlights of 'Mankatha' is undoubtedly Ajith Kumar's portrayal of the anti-hero Vinayak Mahadev. He masterfully played a character with heavy negative shades, which both shocked and impressed audiences, breaking away from traditional hero tropes. His distinctive "salt and pepper" look became a massive trend post-release, influencing fashion and style in the region. The film's gripping narrative is further amplified by powerful face-off scenes between Ajith and Action King Arjun, adding intense drama and keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
Plot Overview: Betrayal and Greed Unfold
The plot of 'Mankatha' revolves around Vinayak, a corrupt Mumbai ACP who is suspended for aiding a smuggler. He infiltrates a gang planning to steal a staggering Rs 500 crore in IPL cricket betting money from the notorious gangster Chettiyar. Vinayak collaborates with four thieves:
- Sumanth (played by Vaibhav)
- Prem (played by Premji Amaran)
- Mahat (played by Mahat Raghavendra)
- Ganesh (played by Ashwin Kakumanu)
Secretly, he plots to betray them and claim the entire loot for himself. The story escalates with a series of betrayals, intense police pursuits led by ACP Prithviraj (Arjun), kidnappings, murders, and culminates in an explosive finale where greed ultimately unravels the entire group.
Musical Brilliance and Lasting Impact
Adding to the film's enduring appeal is Yuvan Shankar Raja's highly praised background score, which perfectly complements the high-octane action and suspenseful moments. The re-release not only celebrates a cinematic milestone but also reaffirms 'Mankatha''s status as a timeless classic in Tamil cinema, continuing to captivate new and old audiences alike with its compelling storytelling and memorable performances.
