Exploring the Intriguing Crime Drama 'Thadayam' on ZEE5
A Unique Take on Crime Investigation
Sub-inspector Athiyamaan is not one to rush through his beloved cup of tea, even in the face of a murder. He believes the body will remain where it is for now.
Far from being indifferent, Athiyamaan possesses a keen intellect akin to a rural detective, which has earned him a reputation for his unconventional methods. As he approaches retirement, he finds himself embroiled in a complex case that demands his full attention.
In this case, victims have been brutally murdered, with the only item missing being the taali, a piece of jewelry that signifies a woman's marital status. Athiyamaan has his theories about the sequence of events leading to these crimes.
To uncover the motive, he must collaborate with his new superior, Lakshmi, played by Sshivada, and navigate the border between Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. Initially hesitant to trust Athiyamaan, Lakshmi gradually recognizes the logic behind his seemingly chaotic approach.
Thadayam, streaming on ZEE5, draws inspiration from real events that occurred in 1999. The series, written and directed by Navinkumar Palanivel, delves into the lives of both criminals and the law enforcement officers pursuing them.
This six-episode series explores a breach of legal protections that pushes the killers, portrayed by Raj Tirandasu and Sundharpandyan, to their limits. As Athiyamaan and Lakshmi investigate further, they uncover unsettling realities about the functioning of law enforcement in these isolated areas and the reactions of discontented individuals to perceived injustices.
Primarily in Tamil with some Telugu dialogue, the series maintains a suspenseful atmosphere and presents a solid police procedural narrative. However, it leaves viewers questioning why the murderers do not target their most obvious victim.
Samuthirakani embodies Athiyamaan with a strong and credible presence, portraying a seasoned officer who has come to terms with the constraints of his role, while also showing empathy during his confrontations with the killers.
Sshivada effectively complements Athiyamaan's rural ingenuity, providing essential support. Raj Tirandasu, known for his role in Pushpa: The Rise, delivers a compelling performance as one half of the murderous duo, complete with a tragically relatable backstory.