Kappalottiya Thamizhan is a 1961 Indian Tamil-language historical drama film produced and directed by B. R. Panthulu.
The film stars Sivaji Ganesan, Gemini Ganesan, and Savitri in its lead roles.
Based on the 1944 book of the same name by M. P. Sivagnanam, the film focuses on V. O. Chidambaram Pillai, a freedom fighter who dedicated himself to breaking the British monopoly over maritime trade from India.
The narrative involves him appearing as counsel for a peasant named Madasami in a case against an agent of a British proprietary company.
Upon its release on 7 November 1961, Kappalottiya Thamizhan received significant critical acclaim and was awarded the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Tamil at the 9th National Film Awards.
Despite performing poorly initially at the box office, the film gained better reception during its re-release in 1967.
