Kaliyil Alpam Karyam 1984

Vinayan Mohanlal is an idealist who hails from a wealthy family, and he consciously follows Gandhian principles to lead a simple, unpretentious life. He is drawn to the calm, unhurried rhythm of rural Kerala and the natural beauty that surrounds the villages. When a position as a Village Development Officer opens up, he moves to a village, rents a modest house, and settles into a contented routine. The Landlord’s daughter Radha Neelima Azim is captivated by him, and he finds himself returning her affection, seeing in her a capable and grounded partner from the countryside.

But Vinayan’s parents hold different expectations for his future. They want him to marry someone who matches their wealth and status, rather than the simple life he cherishes. Into this mix comes Vinayan’s brother, Babu [Rahman], a young city boy who visits after failing college, adding a tension between city ambitions and village values. Vinayan also has a younger sister, Kalpana [Lissy], whose presence rounds out the family dynamics in the house.

As the story unfolds, Radha and Vinayan choose to marry, cementing their bond in the face of family pressure. After the wedding, Radha expresses a strong desire to travel to Ernakulam—Vinayan’s hometown—to see the place and what he calls home. He is taken aback by her city aspirations and attempts to dissuade her, but Radha remains resolute and determined to explore life beyond the village. Soon, Vinayan’s parents arrive and learn of the marriage. In a moment of conflict and concern about fitting Radha into their plans, they take Vinayan back to the family house and try to arrange a different match for him.

Radha’s parents, along with Vinayan’s brother Babu, come to claim Radha as their daughter-in-law as well. Vinayan’s mother agrees to accept Radha, hoping to mollify the situation and perhaps manage things from within, even if the plan is to find a more suitable arrangement later. The marriage faces more strains as Radha sheds her traditional dress for modern outfits, which unsettles Vinayan. He confesses that he married her thinking she would embody the simple village life; Radha counters that she married him because she believed he embodied the energy of city life. She grows weary of village life and the perceived lack of amenities.

Tensions rise as Radha experiences social awkwardness and ridicule during moments with Vinayan’s family, and Babu advises her to return to her husband and their life together. In a turning moment, Radha discards the modern clothes and resolves to go back to Vinayan, signaling a renewed commitment to their union. Vinayan, for his part, regrets how things have unfolded and resolves to win her back. The couple eventually crosses paths on the road, and their renewed connection leads to a heartfelt reunion, reaffirming their belief in each other and the life they hoped to build together.