Chinna Thambi

Chinna Thambi

Year: 1991

Runtime: 135 mins

Language: Tamil

Director: P. Vasu

RomanceDrama

Nandini, a privileged young woman, has been lovingly raised by her three devoted brothers. When a trusted astrologer predicts she will someday choose her own husband, the brothers become obsessively protective, intervening in every potential suitor and arranging her life to keep her safe from love’s choices.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Chinna Thambi yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline – Chinna Thambi (1991)

Trace every key event in Chinna Thambi (1991) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Nandini is born and celebrated

Nandini, a baby girl, is born into a rich family on the outskirts of Erode. Her three elder brothers throw a lavish feast to celebrate the birth and invite a young singer's son to perform. The brothers decide to raise Nandini as their own child since their parents have died, keeping her away from the outside world.

birth Outskirts of Erode
2

The astrologer's warning and confinement

An astrologer prophesies that Nandini will bring great happiness to the family but must marry someone of her own choosing. Alarmed by this, the brothers confine her within the house, schooling her at home and warning every man to stay away. They intend to control her future completely.

childhood Family home near Erode
3

Chinna Thambi grows up and becomes Nandini's future protector

Chinna Thambi, the naïve but generous son of a deceased singer, grows up in the village and catches the brothers' eye. The brothers hire him as Nandini's bodyguard and butler after he defeats their men in a scuffle. Thambi's uncomplicated charm draws him into Nandini's world.

youth Mansion/Village
4

The forbidden outing

Nandini yearns for freedom and secretly asks Thambi to show her the village. He takes her out without the brothers' knowledge, giving her a glimpse of life beyond confinement. The outing leaves Nandini ill, and Thambi is blamed by the brothers for her sickness.

puberty/adolescence Village and home
5

The fallout and growing bond

Nandini's illness earns Thambi harsh punishment from the brothers. Nandini feels guilty for Thambi's beating and, in a rare moment of vulnerability, shares her medicine with him. They realize they care deeply for each other, strengthening their emotional bond.

shortly after outing Family home
6

Thambi leaves and Nandini's plea

Thambi resigns after the public scandal, refusing to return due to the brothers' violence. Nandini follows, apologizes, and tries to convince him to come back, sensing they are bound by something more than loyalty. Their exchange reveals how deeply their connection runs.

after quitting Home
7

The mangalsutra binds them

That night, Nandini asks Thambi to tie a mangalsutra around her neck, effectively marrying him in secret. Thambi, not fully understanding the sanctity, complies and returns to his duties as her protector. The act marks a hidden, dangerous union between them.

night Nandini's home
8

The sisters-in-law push for an official marriage

With Nandini now acting like a wife, the sisters-in-law urge the brothers to marry her off before she brings shame to the family. Thambi remains wary, unaware of the true nature of their bond, while the marriage remains more symbolic than recognized.

shortly after mangalsutra Brothers' mansion
9

Kannamma's torture and Thambi's intervention

Kannamma, Thambi's mother, is tortured by the brothers to reveal Thambi's hiding place. Before they can break her completely, Thambi arrives and almost kills the brothers to protect his mother, forcing them to back off. The danger underscores the peril surrounding their love.

confrontation Kannamma's residence
10

Kannamma saved and Thambi returns to Nandini

Upon learning of Nandini's torment and her descent into self-destruction, Thambi rushes back to rescue his wife. He revives her with a heartfelt performance, proving his devotion and rekindling their bond.

climax Mansion
11

Final embrace and family acceptance

Nandini and Thambi embrace as the brothers finally acknowledge their relationship. The family comes to terms with their love, and the couple's bond is recognized and supported moving forward.

finale Mansion

Last Updated: October 09, 2025 at 14:22

Mobile App Preview

Coming soon on iOS and Android

The Plot Explained Mobile App

From blockbusters to hidden gems — dive into movie stories anytime, anywhere. Save your favorites, discover plots faster, and never miss a twist again.

Sign up to be the first to know when we launch. Your email stays private — always.

Unlock the Full Story of Chinna Thambi

Don't stop at just watching — explore Chinna Thambi in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Chinna Thambi is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Chinna Thambi Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Chinna Thambi, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Chinna Thambi Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Chinna Thambi

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape Chinna Thambi. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in Chinna Thambi

More About Chinna Thambi

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Chinna Thambi: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Chinna Thambi

Similar Movies to Chinna Thambi

Discover movies like Chinna Thambi that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.