Aravindhan is a 1997 Indian Tamil-language political thriller film written and directed by newcomer T. Nagarajan and produced by T. Siva. The film stars Sarathkumar as the titular character, alongside Parthiban, Nagma, and Oorvasi in the lead roles, while Visu, Prakash Raj, Anandaraj, and Thilakan play supporting roles. The film marks the debut of noted music composer Yuvan Shankar Raja, musician Ilaiyaraaja's youngest son, and the debut of cinematographer R. Rathnavelu. The film is based on the 1968 Kilvenmani massacre, in which 44 people were burnt alive. It was released on 16 February 1997, and failed at the box-office.

Plot

Aravindhan is preparing to clear IPS to become a police officer. But after he sees Thamizhvannan, shown as a Naxalite, being shot dead by police, Aravindhan starts a fight against police and corrupt politicians. Aravindhan gets supported by the people for his strict fight against corruption. Anu loves Aravindhan, but her father does not accept the relation. The police wants to put Aravindhan in jail for the politicians, so Aravindhan goes into hiding. On the way, he hides in Gayathri's home. The police tries to catch Aravindhan but at the same time, thinks Gayathri tried to give shelter to Aravindhan, so Gayathri's father dies. Now Aravindhan understands that he has to save Gayathri, so he takes her with him to a factory area to stay.