Ezhai Padum Padu is a 1950 Indian Tamil language film directed by K. Ramnoth. It was simultaneously shot in Telugu as Beedala Patlu. It was an adaptation of Les Misérables, Victor Hugo's 1862 novel. The film was released on Diwali day, 1950 and was a hit. For his memorable portrayal of Inspector Javert in this film, N. Seetharaman came to be called as Javert Seetharaman. It was produced by S. M. Sriramulu Naidu of Pakshiraja Studios.
Production
Ezhai Padum Padu was produced by S. M. Sriramulu Naidu at Pakshiraja Studios in Coimbatore. K. Ramnoth was hired as the director and Chittor V. Nagaiah was cast as Kandan. Initially, Nagercoil K. Mahadevan, was cast as the bishop who reforms the thief. But after a few scenes were shot, Sriramulu Naidu replaced him with Serukulathur Sama. Elangovan wrote the script for Ezhai Padum Paau based on Sudhanandha Bharathi's translation of Les Miserables. Sriramulu Naidu was known for his strict schedule. Once when director Ramnoth was absent from the set, one of the actors - V. Gopalakrishnan - left the set thinking that there would be no filming on that day. An incensed Naidu, filmed the scene using a female actress dressed up as a man instead of Gopalakrishnan.
Plot
Tough and ruthless Police Inspector Javert recaptures a small-time criminal Kandhan who has escaped from prison. Kandhan turns a new leaf with the help of a Christian Bishop. When he is released from prison he starts a glass making company. He changes his identity and becomes successful. He becomes the mayor of his town. Inspector Javert finds out about his new life and threatens to expose him. On one occasion Kandhan saves Javert's life. Javert commits suicide unable to turn Kandhan in to the authorities out of his sense of gratitude.
Cast
Cast according to the opening credits of the film ;Male Cast
The film was released on Deepavali day, 1950 at 'Casino' cinema, Madras. It was a commercial and critical success.
Soundtrack
The soundtrack had ten songs composed by S. M. Subbaiah Naidu. The lyrics by V. A. Gopalakrishnan. The singer is Chittor V. Nagaiah. Playback singers are M. L. Vasanthakumari, P. A. Periyanayaki & Jayalakshmi and Thiruchi Loganathan. ;Tamil Soundtrack ;Telugu Soundtrack
"Chinnari Paapa"
"Sarasaku Radelane"
"Yavvaname Aha Yavvaname"
Remake
This film was remade in Telugu in 1972 with the same name, directed by B. Vittalacharya.
