What is iraivi?

Iraivi (Tamil: இறைவி, transl. Goddess) is a 2016 Indian Tamil-language dark comedy crime film written and directed by Karthik Subbaraj. The film features an ensemble cast including S. J. Surya, Vijay Sethupathi, Bobby Simha, Kamalinee Mukherjee, Anjali, and Pooja Devariya.

The film revolves around the lives of three men, their struggles with relationships, and how their actions are influenced by their respective views on women and the divine. Iraivi explores themes of <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/alcoholism">alcoholism</a>, <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/patriarchy">patriarchy</a>, <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/broken%20relationships">broken relationships</a>, and the idol worship customs in Tamil Nadu, and offers a critique of societal expectations.

The narrative follows Arul (S. J. Surya), a struggling film director battling <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/alcohol%20addiction">alcohol addiction</a> and grief over his wife's death; Michael (Vijay Sethupathi), a sculptor caught between his love for his wife Yazhini (Anjali) and his loyalty to his friend Arul; and Jagan (Bobby Simha), Michael's younger brother who is deeply in love with his wife Malar (Pooja Devariya) but faces marital issues.

The film's central conflict arises when Arul decides to steal idols from temples to fund his film, leading to a series of events that impact the lives of all the characters. Iraivi received generally positive reviews, with praise for its performances, direction, and exploration of complex themes.