Meiyazhagan

In 1996, Arulmozhi Varman 'Arul' leaves his hometown of Thanjavur with his family after their ancestral house is partitioned. This marks the end of his childhood and a significant shift in his life, as they relocate to Madras, carrying emotional baggage and nostalgia. This departure sets the stage for his journey of self-discovery and reunion later in life.

Twenty-two years later, Arul is invited by his cousin Bhuvaneshwari 'Bhuvana' to her wedding in Needamangalam. He plans to attend the reception and immediately departs for Thanjavur by train. This marks the beginning of his return to his roots and rekindling old memories.

Arul visits his ancestral house in Thanjavur, experiencing a wave of nostalgia as he reflects on his childhood. He also discusses the idea of buying a house in Chennai with his wife Hema, showing his desire to reconnect with his past and settle down anew.

At the wedding reception, Arul reunites with his old acquaintances like Sokku Mama and hears about Bhuvana’s troubled marriage. He also meets an enthusiastic but mysterious relative who calls him 'Athaan', hinting at a deeper connection. Arul's interactions reveal both joy and a sense of distance from his past.

Despite Bhuvana's pleas, Arul initially plans to leave after the wedding, but the relative persuades him to stay overnight. Arul then visits the relative’s home, where he meets Nandhini, the pregnant wife, and shares beers with the men, deepening his emotional tie with his estranged family.

At the relative's house, Arul meets Nandhini and admires the Kangeyam bull Dhoni, which the relative affectionately calls his 'son'. He also finds his childhood bicycle, a cherished family relic used by his father, sparking a profound sense of nostalgia and emotional connection.

Nandhini’s husband shares the news of their upcoming child, planning to name the boy Arulmozhi, reaffirming the family's enduring bonds. Arul feels overwhelmed by these emotional revelations, realizing the depth of his forgotten relatives' love and sacrifice.

Moved by his experiences, Arul leaves the relative’s house before dawn, feeling guilty for not recognizing him. During his journey to Thanjavur, he visits Kovilvenni, reflecting on his past and the emotional journey he has undertaken.

Back in Chennai, Arul faces challenges in buying a house and seeks help from his boss. His family, especially his daughter Jhanvi, helps him reconnect by discovering the relative’s phone number, reigniting memories buried for years.

Arul recalls a childhood nickname 'Potato' given to the relative during summer vacation, which triggers a flood of memories. Clues from Nandhini’s family help him piece together the true identity of the relative he deeply loved and lost.

Arul rushes to Needamangalam, stopping at the temple to make an offering. He then arrives at the relative’s home, calling out for him but receiving no response. His persistence shows his desire for emotional closure.

Finally, Arul calls out 'Meiyazhaga(n)' at the door, and the relative, overwhelmed with happiness, opens the door. This marks the emotional climax of their reunion and the rediscovery of their bond after many years.