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        It is one of the rare movies to be made in Tamil cinema, driven by commercial compulsions. A period drama on the Devadasi system, Sringaram by Sharadha Ramanathan which has won several National awards including best cinematography for Madhu Ambat, best music for Lalgudi Jayaraman and best choreography for Saroj Khan.

        An off-beat movie, Sringaram has well-etched characters and a cast that delivers. Sharadha Ramanathan has done immense research before making the movie, it must be said.

        A major portion of the film occurs in a flashback set in 1920s. The classical dance form (Bharathanatyam) by Devadasis in ancient Hindu temples form the movie's central theme.

        Adhithi, a newcomer plays with ease the role of heroine Madhura and her daughter Varshini. Her dancing prowess makes her an apt choice. She plays a strongwilled woman for whom dancing is life.

        She lives under the control of the mirasdar Sukumar (Manoj K Jayan). Unable to continue with her passion (dancing), she chooses to free herself from the clutches of the mirasdar.

        She walks out of the village only to join hands with a group of patriotic extremists led by watchman Sasi (Sashi Kumar). Varshini, who is brought up in a city comes to know about her mother's past and what she chooses to do forms the climax.

        Manoj K Jayan as the mirasdar, who controls the village is an apt choice. Manju Bhargavi as Mudhra's mother is the real scene-stealer. Emotions come easily to the actress. Y Gee Mahendra plays a temple priest while the cast also includes Bharath Kalyan and Vagai Chandrasekhar.

        Noted Carnatic musician Lalgudi Jayaraman excels in re-recording and classical pieces such as Ninaivaal are appealing. Madhu Ambat's cinematography using natural lights is a delight to watch. Equally appealing is Thota Tharani's art. Sringaram has screenplay by Indira Soundararajan. Taking Tamil cinema to new heights is Sringaram.