Rtn. Lokesh write up on
R.P. Rajanayahem speech in Trichi Rotary Club
Speaker meeting 10.12.24
Speaker: R.P.Rajanayahem
Synopsis: Rtn.Lokesh
"Last night's meeting was truly unforgettable. Our esteemed guest speaker, Mr. Rajanayahem, captivated us with his insightful talk on 'Cinema enum Bootham', a topic so compelling that he has authored and published not one, but two editions on the subject.
While a quick Google search might translate 'bootham' to 'ghost', it's clear that technology can sometimes mis lead us. The true essence of a word can only be fully appreciated when understood in its proper context. There are words that cleverly conceal their deeper meanings, even when scrutinized.
In the case of 'Cinema enum Bootham', I firmly believe that 'bootham' doesn't signify 'ghost', but rather 'Genie'—as in the magical being from Aladdin's lamp. Just as the Genie is bound to grant wishes to the possessor of the lamp, Mr. Rajanayahem's quest to master the Genie, which in this case represents Cinema, is aptly reflected in the title. It beautifully encapsulates his complex love-hate relationship with the world of cinema."
"The speaker highlighted a fascinating paradox in the career of veteran actor Rangarao, whose filmography spanned an impressive three decades. Ironically, Rangarao predominantly played the roles of elderly characters, often portraying fathers, despite being only 56 when he passed away. This stark contrast between his on-screen persona and real-life age is a testament to the transformative power of cinema.This chameleon-like quality of cinema is a true marvel, and Rangarao's career serves as a remarkable example of its enduring magic of Genie".
"The speaker's words were laced with a hint of intrigue as he spoke about the enigmatic Actor Chandra Babu. The artist's mind, it seemed, was a labyrinth of unpredictability, prone to taking risks that often jeopardized both his personal life and his hard-won career. This mercurial nature was a far cry from the versatile talent that Chandra Babu possessed - a mastery of comedy, playback singing, stylish dance, and even film direction.
And yet, despite being blessed with an abundance of creative gifts, Chandra Babu's personal demons - his poor commitment and self-destructive habits - ultimately led to his downfall. It was as if the cinema Genie had granted him his heart's desires, but in doing so, had withheld the very things that bring true fulfillment - contentment and peace of mind.
"The speaker reminisced about the late Actor M.R. Radha, recalling his peculiar disdain for individuals who hadn't achieved success. Radha's vocal criticisms of the impoverished were particularly shocking. Our speaker unveiled Mr.Radha's ingenious tactics for commanding attention and control when speaking in public.
The speaker shared an anecdote about how Radha would pointedly accuse random members of the audience of disrupting his speech, even going so far as to demand that the police intervene and discipline the supposedly offending section. It wasn't until later that the speaker realized this was merely a clever ploy devised by Radha to captivate his audience and assert dominance.
While Radha was undoubtedly a bold individual, his fiery temper often got the better of him. The speaker lamented that Radha's anger issues had ultimately hindered him from achieving the greatness he deserved.
"The speaker's eyes sparkled with nostalgia as he fondly remembered the incredible versatility of two talented actors, Senthamarai and Delhi Ganesh, who left an indelible mark on the world of cinema.
He reminisced about Senthamarai's remarkable journey, from his early days as a successful drama artist to his eventual breakthrough in films, courtesy of K. Bhagyaraj's directorial venture, Thooral Ninnu Pochchu. Senthamarai's iconic portrayal of SP Choudhary in his drama, later immortalized by Sivaji in the movie Thanga Pathakam, was a testament to his incredible range as an actor.
The speaker also cherished the memorable screen presence of Delhi Ganesh, particularly in films like Michael Madhana Kamarajan, where he shared the frame with Kamal Haasan, and Avai Shanmugi, where his impeccable comedic timing stole the show.
With a tinge of sadness, the speaker noted that despite their remarkable contributions to the world of cinema, both Senthamarai and Delhi Ganesh remained underrated and underappreciated by the general audience, their talents deserving of far greater recognition and accolades."
"As the speaker brought his remarks to a close, he surprised and delighted the audience by breaking into a soulful rendition of the timeless classic, 'Whatever Will Be, Will Be (Que sera, sera)' by Doris Day. He sang the iconic lyrics in both Tamil and English, his voice imbuing the words with a sense of wistful longing.
As we listened to him singing, got entranced and couldn't help but sense the subtle undertones of pain and resignation that underpinned the speaker's performance. It was as if the song had become a poignant reflection of his own experiences as an artist, one who had known both the thrill of success and the agony of disappointment. The speaker's heartfelt rendition of 'Que sera, sera' seemed to whisper a profound truth: that, despite our deepest desires and most fervent efforts, the course of our lives is ultimately shaped by forces beyond our control.".
Rtn.Lokesh
Tiruchirappalli Midtown
My Club - MY Pride.
