Introduction

"Aavesham," starring Fahadh Faasil as Ranga, has captivated audiences with its colorful and complex villain. Fahadh’s portrayal brings a unique blend of comic timing and depth to Ranga, making him a standout character in recent cinema. The film, while containing subplots of college bullying and revenge, revolves primarily around Ranga. This article delves into Ranga’s motivations, his relationship with the college lads, and the implications of the film's ending.

Why Did Ranga Befriend The College Lads?

Ranga, like many cinematic villains, suffers from profound loneliness. Despite having a devoted companion in Amban, Ranga yearns for true friends who treat him as an equal. This void leads him to form an unlikely friendship with three engineering students, Aju, Bibin, and Shanthan, who seek his help to retaliate against college bullies.

The students encounter Ranga in a bar and, despite initially using him to achieve their goals, they inadvertently become his new "toys" in a metaphorical playpen. Ranga, hiding his pain behind a smile, relishes their company, which temporarily alleviates his loneliness.

Did Ranga Really Kill His Cousin?

Ranga’s backstory, largely narrated by the unreliable Amban, is shrouded in myth and exaggeration. However, elements of truth emerge, such as Ranga’s turbulent past and his violent rise to power. It’s suggested that Ranga’s mother abandoned him due to his criminal lifestyle, and a juice-selling relative attempted to kill him over property disputes. Ranga’s retaliation, resulting in his cousin's death, is a pivotal moment that shapes his future.

Despite promising his mother never to spill blood again, Ranga's violent history continues to haunt him. This promise, coupled with his loneliness, drives his attachment to the college lads, whom he views as a surrogate family.

Why Did Ranga Get Obsessed With The College Lads?

Ranga’s obsession with Aju, Bibin, and Shanthan stems from his desperate need for companionship. Treating them lavishly, Ranga hopes to secure their loyalty and affection. However, this overbearing generosity stifles the lads, who eventually realize they are prisoners in Ranga’s gilded cage.

Ranga's authoritative nature and lack of genuine compassion prevent him from forming real connections. His attempts to win their friendship are more about controlling them than understanding their needs and insecurities.

Why Did Ranga Not Kill Aju, Bibin, and Shanthan?

The climax of "Aavesham" sees Ranga grappling with betrayal and emotional turmoil. Despite his anger, Ranga refrains from killing the college lads, a decision influenced by Bibin’s mother’s heartfelt question about his happiness. This introspection leads Ranga to realize that violence won’t fill his emotional void.

In the final scene, Ranga’s transformation is symbolized by his change from white to black clothing, signifying a shift from his mentor’s influence to a new, self-defined path. Although Ranga retains his authoritative demeanor, he opts for non-lethal methods to discipline Aju and Bibin, reflecting his internal struggle to adhere to his promise of non-violence.

Will Ranga Ever Leave Aju, Bibin, and Shanthan?

In the film's resolution, Ranga remains connected to Aju, Bibin, and Shanthan, albeit with a more restrained approach. His ultimatum about their exams underscores his ongoing influence over their lives, but his methods have softened. The transition from guns and knives to less lethal means of discipline indicates a significant change in Ranga's character.

The ending suggests that while Ranga may not fully release his hold on the lads, he has evolved, potentially paving the way for future narratives within Jithu Madhavan’s cinematic universe. Ranga’s complex character arc leaves room for further exploration, promising more vibrant storytelling ahead.

Conclusion

"Aavesham" presents a rich character study through Ranga, whose loneliness and quest for companionship drive the film’s narrative. His transformation by the film’s end hints at a new beginning, both for Ranga and for potential sequels in Jithu Madhavan’s universe. While Ranga's journey is far from over, his evolution marks a poignant turn in his quest for connection and redemption.