Koyil Kaalai

Koyil Kaalai is a 1993 Indian Tamil-language action drama film, co-produced and directed by Gangai Amaran. The film stars Vijayakanth, Kanaka, Sujatha and Veera Pandiyan. The music was composed by Ilaiyaraaja who co-produced the film. The movie became a hit at box office. It was released on 14 January 1993, during Pongal.

Plot
Abandoned on the temple doorstep, Uppili grows up to be a sort of caretaker of the temple premises, doing odd jobs. His attitude often brings him into conflict with a money-minded man Sundaralingam who tries to misuse temple lands leased out to him. Enters Arasayi, the fire-spitting lass who ends up marrying Uppili. She is daughter of the very man Murugesan whom Uppili caught red-handed stealing temple jewels. While facts distorted, Arasayi believes Uppili to be the culprit and had come with the intention of having her revenge. However, matters get sorted out and all ends well with the villain getting his due. There is also the subplot of Maragathammal who looks after three temple accounts, her dumb daughter Usha, her scraps with Sundaralingam, and Uppili timely help.

Soundtrack
The music was composed by Ilaiyaraaja. The song "Thaayundu Thanthai" is set in Mayamalavagowla raga.

Reception
The Indian Express wrote, "The film with screenplay-direction by Gangai Amaran has nothing new by way of story or narration". R. P. R. of Kalki criticised the film for its tiring plot, rotten sequences, lack of thrilling twists and three-to-four endings, adding that had the director applied his mind he would have at least made a perfect devotional film.