Simla Special

Simla Special is a 1982 Indian Tamil-language comedy film directed by Muktha Srinivasan, starring Kamal Haasan in the lead role. S. V. Shekher, Sripriya, Thengai Srinivasan, Y. G. Mahendran and Manorama appear in supporting roles. It was released on 14 April 1982.

Plot
Gopu is a budding theatre artist. He and his close friend Babu own a popular troupe that performs low-budget comedy plays. To help Babu pay for his sister's wedding, they accept a commission to perform a set of plays for Tamilians in Simla. One of the plays is titled Simla Special and is written by Mahalakshmi.

While Kamal is in Simla, Babu receives a telegram intended for Gopu informing him of Gopu's mother being seriously ill. Fearing the loss of the money if they renege on the Simla commission, Babu keeps the information from Gopu. Gopu subsequently finds out about his mother's illness when a friend calls to tell him that her situation has worsened. However, for the sake of his friend's sister, he decides to continue acting. He also keeps the information to himself, thinking that if Babu knew, he'd insist that Gopu go back to be by his mother's side.

On the last day of their engagement, Gopu finds the telegram in Babu's coat pocket and realises his friend's deception. He breaks off his friendship with Babu — but is forced to stay for one last encore before he leaves. While he is performing, Babu receives a call that Gopu's mother has recovered. All is forgiven and the friends reunite.

Production
Kamal Haasan, besides acting as the male lead, also choreographed one song in the film: "Unakenna Mele Ninraai". The film was prominently shot in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh.

Soundtrack
Soundtrack was composed by M. S. Viswanathan, with lyrics by Vaali. The song "Unakenna Mele" is set in Sindhu Bhairavi raga.

Reception
Kalki gave the film a mixed review, criticising the story, cinematography for not perfectly capturing Shimla but praised Shekher's acting.