Review: Paradha: Honest And Effective

 

Movie: Paradha
Rating: 3.25/5

Cast: Anupama Parameswaran, Darshana Rajendran, Sangeetha, Mayur, Gautham Vasudev Menon, and others

Director: Praveen Kandregula

Produced By: Anand Media

Release Date: 22-08-2025

Story:

Women in Padathi wear a paradha to cover their faces as part of their customs. Subbalakshmi, who happily follows the tradition of her village and is soon to be married, steps into the outside world because of an allegation against her. What made her leave the village? What challenges did she encounter, and who did she meet along the way? How did her journey conclude? The rest of the story answers the questions.

Performances:

Anupama Parameswaran excelled in her role as Subbalakshmi. She perfectly portrayed the innocence and intensity according to the scenes. Darshana Rajendran and Sangeetha impress in their parts. Rag Mayur leaves an impact, and Gautham Vasudev Menon delivers in a short appearance. Other actors portraying villagers are suitable.

What worked for the film:

Director Praveen Kandireegula tackles a poignant topic. The first half effectively establishes the right emotions and engaging conflict. Jwalamma's backstory is well explained. Everything that leads up to Subbu leaving the village has a strong effect.

The way Subbu and Amishta's journey begins and unfolds is portrayed well. The story shows how Subbu breaks free from her silly superstitions and traditions to become an independent woman with the right effect. Sangeeta's character brings some fun moments and has a solid scene in the second half.

The climax works well and does not come off as preachy at all. The way the camera and music come together is a major win for the film, aligning beautifully with the plot.

What did not work for the film:

There are some slow and tedious parts in the latter half of the film, and there are a couple of scenes featuring Anupama and Darshana that seem redundant and could have been cut out. Also, a somewhat unsettling scene, which is crucial for the main character's change, feels a bit stretched out.

Paradha Review and Verdict:

Praveen Kandregula's Paradha tackles a heavy and insightful topic, telling the story without appearing preachy while still keeping it intense. Anupama Parameswaran delivers a fantastic performance, and Darshana and Sangeetha stand out as well.