Thoovanathumbikal: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Movie

Thoovanathumbikal is regarded as one of the finest films in Malayalam cinema. The character Jayakrishnan, played by Mohanlal, remains unforgettable, and the actor’s portrayal has been celebrated as one of his best performances. If one were to ask which of Mohanlal’s films has aged like fine wine, the answer would undoubtedly be Thoovanathumbikal.

The film delves beyond a deep romantic connection, as encapsulated by the iconic line, “There is nothing to remember between us, but there is something that makes us unforgettable.” The journey of Jayakrishnan and Clara is laced with emotions, complexities, and an inexplicable charm. Meanwhile, Radha, silently in love with Jayakrishnan, adds another poignant layer to the narrative.

Directed by Padmarajan, Thoovanathumbikal has achieved cult status in Malayalam cinema. Jayakrishnan, speaking in the unique Thrissur dialect, is etched in the hearts of Malayalis, making him one of the most beloved characters ever portrayed in the industry.

Recently, Mohanlal shared his reflections on the film, garnering widespread attention:“Thoovanathumbikal is a movie that happens only once in a lifetime. Films today cannot evoke the same emotions or love that it did. I know people who have watched it more than 500 times. The film carries a certain magic—it encapsulates seven types of sins and remains a cult classic. It is the kind of movie that an actor experiences only once in their career. People still talk about it—not because Mohanlal acted in it, but because of the way Jayakrishnan was brought to life by the script and the making. It’s an integral piece of cinema.”

Mohanlal also highlighted how the emotional depth of older films like Thoovanathumbikal is hard to replicate today:
“I’m not complaining—it’s just that times are changing. But the feeling that cinema evokes remains unchanged. We can still create movies like this, albeit in different forms.”

When Thoovanathumbikal was released, it didn’t receive the widespread acclaim it enjoys today. Great art often requires time to be recognized, and for Thoovanathumbikal, it took a new generation of viewers to understand its brilliance. The film, which is now celebrated as one of the best romantic classics in Malayalam, didn’t initially receive the appreciation it deserved.

With Padmarajan’s masterful touch, Thoovanathumbikal continues to be a timeless classic, often ranked among the greatest films in Indian cinema. Mohanlal’s reflections have reignited conversations about the movie, ensuring its legacy remains alive for future generations.