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Sangamam is a 1999 Tamil language musical drama film directed by Suresh Krishna. The movie features Rahman, Vindhya, Manivannan, Vijayakumar, Radharavi, and Vadivelu in important roles. The movie marked the debut of actress Vindhya in Tamil cinema. The film's score and soundtrack were composed by A. R. Rahman, one of India's renowned music directors.

The movie follows the story of an enthusiastic young man named Pari, played by Rahman, who is passionate about music and dance. He belongs to a family of folk artists who perform at village festivals, weddings, and other occasions. Pari is engaged to a village girl named Subha, who is talented in Bharatanatyam, a classical Indian dance form.

One day, Pari and his family receive an invitation to perform at a concert organized by a businessman named Raju, played by Vijayakumar, in the city. The family travels to the city, where Pari meets the city-bred and westernized Janaki, played by Vindhya, who is a music teacher, his family's employer for the event. Despite their differences, the two form an instant bond over music. Janaki recognizes Pari's talent in music and invites him to come to her music school.

Pari, who has never had any formal training in music, learns classical music under Janaki's guidance. He also teaches her the traditional folk music that is close to his heart. Along with their mutual admiration for each other's art, they also slowly develop a strong romantic relationship.

While Pari and Janaki's love story unfolds, Raju has his eyes set on Janaki and tries to sabotage their love even though he is married. He sees Pari as a threat to his possessiveness and thinks that Pari is trying to take away Janaki from him.

Subha, who is eagerly waiting for Pari, finds out about his relationship with Janaki and misunderstands him. Her misunderstanding creates a complication in Pari's life, and he is left to choose between love and duty.

The film's plot not only focuses on love but also sheds light on the coexistence of traditional Indian folk music and classical Indian music, highlighting the need to preserve the rich cultural heritage of India. Sangamam explores complex issues such as class differences, casteism, and the struggle of rural communities. Despite the weight of such issues, the film has a light-hearted tone throughout.

A. R. Rahman's music in the film is outstanding, with songs like "Mudhal Murai" and "Thennal Vannathum" being some of the most memorable numbers in his career. The music is a mix of classical Indian music and traditional folk music, and the movie showcases Rahman's versatility in music direction.

The cinematography of the film, which captures the rustic beauty of rural Tamil Nadu, is top-notch. The elaborate dance sequences in the film, choreographed by Prabhu Deva, also deserve special mention.

Sangamam, though released more than two decades ago, remains a classic that is still relevant today in contemporary Indian cinema. The movie showcases India's rich cultural heritage and the need to preserve it. The movie's efforts to bridge the gap between traditional folk music and classical Indian music, and to bring to the forefront issues of social and economic struggles faced by rural communities, still resonate with audiences today.