'Chandu is an absolute loser': Mammootty on his iconic role in Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha

One of the most popular Malayalam monologues ever is from Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha, when Mammootty’s Chandu laments about how he was wronged by everyone. In the monologue, Mammootty says “Jeevithathil Chanduvine tholpichitu undu, palarum palavattam” which translates to Chandu has been defeated by several people many times. In a recent conversation with Ramesh Pisharody, Mammootty delved into the classic film, saying that in today’s terms, the lead character of Chandu would be 'an absolute loser'. 

Mammootty on Chandu in Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha 

The legendary MT Vasudevan Nair has penned the script of Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha, giving Malayalam cinema an unforgettable character. Those familiar with the Vadakkan Pattukal, Malayalam ballads, would know the character of Chandu, albeit as a cheater. But in MT's story, Chandu emerges as a hero who despite being wronged by everyone chooses the righteous path. 

In Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha, Mammootty plays Chandu, an orphan, who is adopted by his uncle Kannappan Chekavar. Despite being a skilled warrior, Chandu faces defeat in every aspect of life. 

When Ramesh Pisharody points out that Chandu is let down by his lover, his guru and even friend, Mammootty quips that in today’s terminology, Chandu would be called a “loser.” “Chandu is an absolute loser,” he remarked. 

But despite Chandu being a loser, audiences leaving the theatres would remember him as a valiant hero and that is the brilliance of MT’s script, Mammootty pointed out.

Also read - Iconic Malayalam films that pay homage to MT Vasudevan Nair's legacy  

"Not just those who win are brave. Even letting go is courageous. Takes courage to stand in front of a gun or knife,” Mammootty said, pointing out that Chandu wins respect for this. 

Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha’s re-release

Meanwhile, Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha re-released in 4K in theatres on February 7, 2025. The 1989 film, directed by Hariharan, was remastered and presented in cinemas for today's generation.

Apart from Mammootty, Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha also stars Suresh Gopi, Balan K Nair, and Maadhavi, among several others. The film notched up several accolades, including a National Award for Mammootty.

Also read - Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha re-release: Mammootty played Chathiyan Chandu only because it was MT Vasudevan Nair’s script