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Politics within Thattathin Marayathu

The Constitution bestows you with every other freedom but for the freedom to love. The movie Thattathin Marayathu discusses the profound love story between a Hindu boy and a Muslim girl and their unwillingness to give up. The film is a mesh of a college love story woven with threads of communal differences associated with prejudices and politics. It is about love not succumbing to faith and communal differences, yet one that never assumes a didactic tone.

The movie talks about the importance of secularism in society. The movie, in a subtle manner, talks about the idea of secularism. From Vinod opening a Purdah shop to even the climax scene when Aisha asks if a room is available for her to do the prayers in a Hindu house, it shows that religion should not be a dividing force against love or humanity. 

The movie also talks about the importance of consent in romantic relationships. Aisha is initially apprehensive about Vinod's advances, but she eventually reciprocates his feelings. Here, Vinod also respects the wishes of Aisha. 

Thattathin Marayathu also subtly challenges traditional gender norms and expectations. In the orthodox family of Aisha, women are not allowed to come to the forefront or talk with men and all the decisions are taken by men. Here, towards the climax, we can see the feminist elements in the movie through the roles of Sreenivasan and the mother of Aisha. A change against patriarchy can only come from within the community; change cannot be imposed on people. Here, the freedom which was restricted due to family norms is broken by members of the family itself (father). Isha Talwar showcases agency and independence in her decisions. She defies her conservative family's expectations by pursuing a relationship with the male lead, Vinod, against their wishes. A feminist perspective would appreciate her determination to choose her path in matters of the heart.

Aisha's journey throughout the film involves self-discovery and the pursuit of her happiness rather than conforming to societal expectations. This theme of self-discovery and personal growth is often celebrated from a feminist standpoint.

While "Thattathin Marayathu" may not explicitly focus on the politics of the time, the film's portrayal of secularism, agency, consent, and the challenges posed by traditional gender norms can subtly align with feminist perspectives on relationships and women's autonomy.

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