MELBOURNE, 15 January 2024: Annapoorani, daughter of a strict Brahmin who cooks food in a temple, wants to become a Chef, instead of doing MBA, as her father suggests. He thinks being vegetarians and working in a temple does not fit well with his daughter becoming a Chef, as it means dealing with meat. The contradiction is a source of tension in the family as Annapoorani is determined to choose her own career. And, the father is also adamant about his opinion.
To distract her, he fixes her marriage. On the marriage day Annapoorani, who has already filled up the form for admission to a catering course in Chennai, escapes from home on her grandmothers advice and after initial difficulties get’s admitted to the catering college. She gets all the help needed from her friend Farhaan. The news spreads and the father is sacked from his job. Things do not move smoothly at the catering college and is forced to abandon the course.
She then tries to grab a job in a prominent hotel, but faces opposition from the owners son, who also works in the hotel. Somehow, she gets the job leading to fierce hurdles in the kitchen. Basically, the movie traces Annapoorani’s struggle to pursue the dream of becoming a Chef. A rather rare theme focussed on a leading lady.
Much more happens. Her family grapples trapped in a cultural time-frame. Still, there is no stopping for Annapoorani.
Leaving aside the emotional stances, the movie bats for women’s empowerment. In plain language a girl should be allowed to pursue her dreams independently. Centuries old traditions should not hinder a girl’s career. Despite orthodox cultural roots, families have to listen to their children (son or daughter) as they live in the ethos of the 21st century. It is here the movie excels, despite at times getting strayed.
Interestingly, the movie despite being on the culinary profession has little talk of food, except in the climax. No doubt, despite this, the message is – a girl can also give honour and strength to her parents family pursuing a dream career.
The movie is produced by Naad Studios, with Zee Studios and Trident Arts. Music is by Thamman and cinematography by Sathyan Sooryan. The director is Nilesh Krishna and stars Nayanthara (Jawan), Jai and Sathyaraj among others.
This Tamil movie (also dubbed in Hindi) was released in December 2023 and later started streaming on Netflix, which has now pulled it down after protests by Hindu groups in India alleging it being offensive and against one community. The producers have promised necessary cuts and coproducers issued an apology.
