Guru (1997) was directed by Rajiv Anchal, an award-winning artist for his sculptures. The movie features an allegorical story depicting the redemption of a young Hindu man overcome by revenge. An ambitious politician creates a communal turmoil between Hindus and Muslims in a small village. Raghuraman (played by Mohanlal) loses his family in the riot and vows to kill the Muslims. He joins a group that wants to kill a Muslims who have taken refuge at an ashram. Raghuraman enters the Ashram and has an out worldly experience that changes his perspective.
Ilaiyaraaja produced a score that matches the mysticism and fantastical nature of the movie. It was the first movie in India that had a Symphonic Orchestra (from Budapest) doing the score. The movie was also the official entry of India to the Oscars. According to me, the movie and the score are one of the most underrated ones in India.
The title track was later part of Music Messiah – a cross-over devotional album.
The complete score
Director’s cut of the movie submitted to the Oscars