"Two Women" – A Film That Reveals the Horrors of War

The Italian actress Sophia Loren is one of the finest talents to have left a mark on Hollywood. When people hear the name Sophia Loren, many first recall her glamorous figure. But Sophia Loren was not just a beautiful woman—she was also a brilliant actress. She was the first actress to win an Oscar for Best Actress in a film that was not in English. 

The film Two Women is based on a novel of the same name (La Ciociara) by Alberto Moravia, one of Italy’s most famous novelists. Moravia’s novels often deal with sexual themes quite candidly. The black-and-white film Two Women brought Sophia Loren 22 international awards. This film, directed by the renowned Italian filmmaker Vittorio De Sica (whose films have won four Academy Awards and who also directed the famous The Bicycle Thief), movingly portrays the impact of war on ordinary people.

"Abinaya Saraswathi" (Saraswathi of Expression) Sarojadevi has passed away. Deep condolences.

The news of actress Sarojadevi's passing spread across the internet. Deep condolences. True artists never perish. They live on through their art. Sarojadevi too will remain eternal through her performances.

She was one of my favorite actresses. The first film I can remember watching was "Enga Veettu Pillai," starring MGR and Sarojadevi together. After that, only a few more films featuring both of them were released. Among those, "Anbe Vaa" particularly captivated me.

The era of MGR–Sarojadevi gradually faded as the MGR–Jayalalithaa phase began to dominate Tamil cinema. However, that very shift created space for several films that showcased Sarojadevi's acting prowess. Films like "Thamarai Nenjam," "Kulavilakku," and "Panamaa Paasamaa" are worth mentioning.

As for me, I am an ardent fan of MGR. Many of the films released between 1958 and 1965, starring MGR and Sarojadevi, were later re-released. Whenever I had the opportunity, I would watch them. It is noteworthy that many of the songs from those films, sung by T.M. Soundararajan and P. Susheela, became hugely popular.

Another unforgettable memory for Sri Lankan Tamils—when "Enga Veettu Pillai" was screened in Sri Lanka, Sarojadevi accompanied MGR on the visit. Everywhere they went, thousands gathered to welcome them. If one searches old newspapers and magazines, the scale of the reception they received can be seen clearly.

In her memory, here are some of my favorite songs from films she starred in:

Mother of refuge! Long live! – V. N. Giritharan -

- Today, July 1st,  is the birthday of Canada, our nurturing mother of refuge. Let us celebrate! - (Art by AI)

On this sacred land where people of all races live as one,
This is your land, O blessed soil!
Let virtue flourish and the world revere,
Long live you, the noble mother, forevermore!

To those who left their native lands seeking refuge,
We call you our Mother of Refuge!
O Mother Canada! You are the embodiment of compassion!
We have survived because of your love!

This day is the dawn of your birth!
Not just today, but always, we will sing your praise.
May your compassion overflow like today, forever.
We wish you well, and a life of grace!