Watch Aarohanam

Aarohanam, directed by Lakshmy Ramakrishnan, is a Tamil-language drama film that was released in 2012. The film revolves around the life of a woman named Ranganayaki (played by Viji Chandrashekhar) who is diagnosed with bipolar disorder. The movie takes the viewers on an emotional journey as it explores the struggles Ranganayaki and her family face as they try to come to terms with her illness.

The story of Aarohanam begins with Ranganayaki going missing. Her two children - a son and a daughter - and her sister try to find her. The movie then takes us through Ranganayaki's life as a loving mother and a dedicated wife, and her sudden descent into mental illness.

Throughout the film, we see the impact of Ranganayaki's illness on her relationships with her family members. Her husband (played by G. Marimuthu) is shown struggling to cope with the changes in her behavior and mood, and her children feel lost and helpless as their mother pushes them away.

One of the most poignant moments of the movie is when Ranganayaki's sister (played by Jai Quehaeni) takes her to a temple, hoping that the visit will bring her some semblance of peace. As Ranganayaki prays, her sister breaks down in tears, realizing the extent of her sister's pain and suffering.

Throughout the film, we see glimpses of Ranganayaki's past - including her love for music and her aspirations to become a singer. These flashbacks help the viewer understand Ranganayaki's character better and add depth to the story.

The film addresses the stigma surrounding mental illness and the lack of awareness about it in Indian society. The struggle of the family to accept Ranganayaki's bipolar disorder and to find the right medical help for her is portrayed realistically and sensitively.

The film's pacing is slow, but it suits the story being told. The cinematography is understated, with the focus on the performances of the actors. Viji Chandrashekhar delivers a powerful performance as Ranganayaki, bringing to life the character's pain, vulnerability, and strength.

Overall, Aarohanam is a moving film that deals with an important issue with sensitivity and empathy. It is a must-watch for anyone who wants to understand the impact of mental illness on individuals and their families.

Aarohanam is a 2012 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 21 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.