After a theatrical run that generated both heated debate and divided opinion, Parasakthi is set to make its digital debut. The Sivakarthikeyan-led political period drama will begin streaming on ZEE5 from February 7, three weeks after it hit theatres ahead of the Pongal festival on January 10.
Directed by Sudha Kongara, Parasakthi places itself firmly within the charged socio-political landscape of 1960s Tamil Nadu. The film follows Chezhiyan, played by Sivakarthikeyan, a young man whose personal journey becomes intertwined with the anti-Hindi agitations that marked a defining chapter in the state's history. Known largely for his crowd-pleasing entertainers, Sivakarthikeyan's turn as Chezhiyan was positioned as a deliberate pivot, one that sought to blend star power with ideological heft. A Film That Divided Opinion Upon release, Parasakthi opened to a strong start at the box office, collecting over Rs 12 crore on its first day. However, the momentum proved difficult to sustain. While curiosity and festival footfalls helped the opening weekend, the film witnessed a steady dip in collections across its second and third weeks. By the end of its theatrical run, the film had crossed the Rs 100 crore mark globally, a respectable figure, though one that fell short of the expectations surrounding its scale, theme and pedigree.
Critically, the response was mixed. Some praised Sudha Kongara's ambition and the film's attempt to revisit a turbulent political moment with emotional urgency. Others felt the narrative struggled to balance its ideological commentary with dramatic cohesion. Sivakarthikeyan's performance drew appreciation for its restraint and sincerity, especially in moments where Chezhiyan is torn between personal loss and collective resistance. At the same time, the film's pacing and tonal shifts emerged as common points of contention. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ZEE5 Tamil (@zee5tamil) Ravi Mohan, stepping into the antagonist's role, added a measured intensity, playing a character shaped by power and political calculation rather than overt villainy. Sreeleela, as the female lead, brought warmth to the narrative, though her arc remained largely secondary to the film's larger political canvas. Atharvaa's presence in a key role further anchored the ensemble, contributing to the film's layered portrayal of conflicting ideologies. A Second Life On Streaming The OTT release offers Parasakthi an opportunity to be reassessed away from opening weekend pressures and box office expectations. Political dramas often find a more patient audience on streaming platforms, where viewers can engage with themes and subtext at their own pace. For a film rooted in historical context and ideological debate, this shift in viewing environment could prove crucial.
The film's extended cast includes Kulappulli Leela, Prakash Belawadi, Dev Ramnath, Prithvi Rajan, Guru Somasundaram and Chetan, with cameo appearances from Rana Daggubati and Basil Joseph adding surprise value. Behind the scenes, Sudha Kongara co-wrote the film with Arjun Nadesan, with additional screenplay by Ganeshaa. Dialogues by Madhan Karky and Shan Karuppusamy lend the film its rhetorical edge, often blending political slogans with intimate character moments. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ZEE5 Tamil (@zee5tamil) Technically, Parasakthi boasts a seasoned crew. GV Prakash's music, marking his 100th film as a composer, underscores the film's emotional and ideological beats with measured gravitas. Ravi K Chandran's cinematography captures the period setting with muted textures and controlled scale, while editor Sathish Surya keeps the narrative focused despite its expansive timeline. The film is produced by Aakash Baskaran under the Dawn Pictures banner, with Dev Ramnath serving as creative producer and MP Senthel and Rhea Kongara as executive producers.
As Parasakthi heads to ZEE5, the conversation around it is far from over. Whether the film finds renewed appreciation or remains a polarising chapter in Sivakarthikeyan's career, its digital release ensures that Chezhiyan's story continues to be discussed, debated and rediscovered.
Also Read: Parasakthi Trailer Ignites Debate As Sivakarthikeyan and Atharvaa Lead a 1960s Student Uprising