The Plot:
* The film begins with the murder of a young woman, Sreelatha, who was a student activist fighting against a corrupt businessman, Thampi.
* Rajan, a young journalist, investigates Sreelatha's murder and uncovers a web of corruption involving Thampi and powerful officials. He discovers that Sreelatha was fighting against Thampi's land grabbing activities and his illegal business practices.
* Rajan faces threats and intimidation from Thampi's men, but he remains determined to expose the truth. He finds support from Ravi, another journalist, who believes in Rajan's cause.
* Radhika, Sreelatha's friend, also joins Rajan in his quest for justice. She provides crucial information about Sreelatha's work and her potential enemies.
* Rajan discovers that Thampi has strong connections within the police and the political system, making it difficult to get justice for Sreelatha. He finds himself isolated and facing an uphill battle.
* The climax: Rajan confronts Thampi and exposes his crimes to the public. He uses his journalistic skills to bring the truth to light, leading to a public outcry and a police investigation.
* The film ends on a hopeful note, suggesting that despite the challenges, the fight for justice continues.
Key Characters:
* Rajan (played by Mammootty): A young journalist who becomes determined to find justice for Sreelatha. He is brave, righteous, and dedicated to his work.
* Sreelatha (played by Menaka): A student activist who is murdered for her fight against corruption.
* Thampi (played by Thilakan): A corrupt businessman who is the main antagonist in the story.
* Ravi (played by Sreenivasan): A journalist who supports Rajan and believes in his cause.
* Radhika (played by Shobana): Sreelatha's friend who provides crucial information to Rajan.
Themes:
* Social Justice: The film highlights the struggle for social justice against a corrupt system.
* Corruption: The film exposes the pervasiveness of corruption in society and how it affects the lives of ordinary people.
* The Power of Media: The film shows how journalism can play a vital role in exposing corruption and holding the powerful accountable.
* Perseverance: The film emphasizes the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.
Impact and Legacy:
"Puthiya Mugham" was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The film was praised for its powerful story, strong performances, and its timely social commentary. It became one of the most influential Malayalam films of the 1980s, inspiring several other films and documentaries on the theme of corruption.
Overall, "Puthiya Mugham" is a compelling film that explores the dark side of society and the relentless pursuit of justice. It is a powerful commentary on the importance of fighting for what is right, even in the face of immense obstacles.