Sapne

The Film starring Arvind Swami, Prabhu Deva, Kajol was released on 14 January 1997 coinciding with Thai Pongal alongside Mani Ratnam’s political drama film, Iruvar ( translated as The Duo ) starring Mohanlal, Prakash Raj,Aishwarya Rai, Revathi, Gautami, Tabu inspired by the lives of M. G. Ramachandran, M. Karunanidhi & J. Jayalalitha.

Both the films opened to lukewarm response at the box office. Minsara Kanavu emerged triumphant at the Tamil Nadu box office. It’s Telugu version had a good opening in Andhra Pradesh. After the viewers were initially unhappy with the sad climax of the film, distributors used an alternate ending which had also been shot for the film.

The film was partially re-shot & released in October 1997 in Hindi as ‘Sapnay’ to capitalize on Kajol’s popularity in Northern India, earning below average reviews from critics.

The film went on to win four National awards, three Tamil Nadu State film awards & a Filmfare award for it’s soundtrack. A. R. Rahman’s magic is evident in every song. Chitra & S.P. Balasubramaniam won the National awards for Best playback singers.

The tangled love story between the leads is nothing new. Arvind Swami takes the help of Prabhu Deva to win his beloved’s heart. But the girl, Priya falls for the matchmaker. Barbar by profession, he is sweet, soft spoken, known to win hearts.

Not the actors but the film’s score is worth visiting the film again & again. Basically, how can a girl choose Prabhu Deva over the elegant Arvind Swami is just beyond me. Love is blind, agreed. But may be our loyalties lie elsewhere ??

The factory of under garments is another feature which was ridiculous. The manner could have been better. With the best actors available it is not a great film which it could have been!