First released in 1964, the late and legendary actor Sivaji Ganesan’s period flick Karnan wasn’t much of a success though the film is best remembered for Sivaji’s emotion-filled acting and NTR’s portrayal of Lord Krishna and the lingering melodies, a couple of them sung for NTR by the late playback singer Sirgazi Govindarajan.

Some fans of Sivaji decided to re-release Karnan again to test waters as to how the film fares in today’s generation of Kolaveri youths.  Karnan was released three months back in a grand manner and the pre-publicity glitz indulged in by the fans of the actor made the film appear as if it was being released for the first time.

The film has now touched the coveted 100-day mark, something which hasn’t been achieved by even many new films.  The fans arranged a get together at the Sathyam Cinemas to celebrate the rare occasion.  A special screening of the film was also arranged in which former Union Minister and Congress (I) leader Ilangovan took part.  However, it might be noted that the film was watched all these days not much by the younger generation but mostly by old-timers.

Speaking on the occasion, Ilangovan praised Sivaji’s acting credentials sky-high and described him as a piller of the party in the State along with the irrepressible Kamaraj.  He also said that Sivaji indulged in many charity works sans giving publicity to those acts.  He appealed to the chief minister to bring up a memorial hall in memory of the actor depicting his various achievements spread over a period of more than 50 years.