Mudhalvan

Mudhalvan

Year: 1999

Runtime: 169 mins

Language: Tamil

Director: Shankar

Thriller

A man accepts a challenge to act as the Chief Minister for one day only, and makes such a success of it that soon he is embroiled in political intrigue.

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Timeline & Setting – Mudhalvan (1999)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Mudhalvan (1999). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The story is set in a contemporary political era, showcasing modern media dynamics, public demonstrations, and the interplay between journalists and politicians. The pivotal arc centers on a single 24-hour window during which reforms, investigations, and political machinations unfold. The frequent political campaigns and election pressures reflect a present-day state facing governance challenges.

Location

Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Mudhalvan unfolds in the bustling city of Chennai, the media hub and political nerve center of Tamil Nadu. The urban landscape provides a backdrop for protests, television interviews, and crowded streets where public sentiment sways quickly. The state capital becomes a character in its own right as Pugazh and Thenmozhi navigate a complex web of governance and activism.

🌆 Urban 🗳️ Politics 🎬 Indian Cinema

Last Updated: October 05, 2025 at 08:42

Main Characters – Mudhalvan (1999)

Meet the key characters of Mudhalvan (1999), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Pughazhendhi Narayanan (Pugazh) — Arjun Sarja

A fearless news reporter in Chennai who uses his platform to confront corruption and demand accountability. He evolves from a vigilant journalist into a reform-minded leader willing to sacrifice personal comfort for the greater good. His 24-hour challenge catalyzes sweeping changes and tests his ethics.

🗞️ Journalist 🎯 Leader 💪 Courage

Thenmozhi (Manisha Koirala)

Thenmozhi is known for her honesty and bravery; she becomes Pugazh’s steadfast love interest whose integrity guides him. Her father’s disapproval of marriage to a non-government employee creates personal conflict, but her support remains a stabilizing force. She embodies moral courage in public and private life.

💚 Integrity 💪 Courage ❤️ Romance

Aranganathan (Chief Minister) — Raghuvaran

A powerful, calculating politician who wields influence to protect his coalition and image. He faces a rising challenge as Pugazh’s actions threaten his grip on power, resorting to coercion and manipulation before his fate in the political crucible. His arc illustrates the perilous balance between ambition and public accountability.

🏛️ Politics 💰 Corruption 🗡️ Conflict

Mayakrishnan

An honest government secretary who allies with Pugazh to implement reforms. He represents bureaucratic integrity and pragmatic wisdom, helping navigate political pressures while aiming to improve welfare for the people. His guidance anchors the reform effort.

🧭 Integrity 🗃️ Bureaucracy

Thenmozhi's Father

A traditional-minded father who initially disapproves of Pugazh’s marriage to his daughter, reflecting social expectations. He gradually comes to respect Pugazh’s achievements and supports the couple, symbolizing generational and cultural tensions in politics and society.

👨‍👧 Family 🏛️ Tradition

Last Updated: October 05, 2025 at 08:42

Major Themes – Mudhalvan (1999)

Explore the central themes of Mudhalvan (1999), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⚖️ Power & Responsibility

Pugazh’s 24-hour ascent confronts the idea that power must be wielded for the public good. The film traces how a single leader’s decisions can reshape welfare and corruption, testing personal risk and ethical limits. The narrative emphasizes accountability, sacrifice, and the heavy burden of leadership in a democracy.

📰 Media & Accountability

As a reporter, Pugazh uses journalism to challenge entrenched interests and uncover wrongdoing. The movie highlights how media coverage, video evidence, and public scrutiny influence political fortunes. It also explores the responsibility and consequences of exposing corruption.

🗳️ Politics & Elections

The dissolution of the legislature and the ensuing elections act as a turning point that tests public trust and democratic processes. The film portrays how reform-minded leadership can mobilize popular support, while opponents deploy fear and intimidation. The ultimate electoral victory reshapes the state's future.

Last Updated: October 05, 2025 at 08:42

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Mudhalvan Summary

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Mudhalvan Summary

Mudhalvan Timeline

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Mudhalvan Timeline

Mudhalvan Spoiler-Free Summary

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Mudhalvan Spoiler-Free Summary

More About Mudhalvan

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