The story is set in the fictional kingdom of Vigada Nagar, where a group of corrupt ministers has struck a shady deal with Chinese traders to exploit the kingdom’s resources. To protect their secret, they try to influence the King (played by Vadivelu), but their plans are challenged when a witty and intelligent commoner named Tenaliraman (also played by Vadivelu) is appointed as a minister.

Key narrative beats:

“Thenaliraman” contributed to the ongoing dialogue in Tamil cinema about the role of ordinary citizens in confronting corruption. Its depiction of a strong female teacher as an equal partner in activism was highlighted in several media discussions on gender representation in regional films.