Paadum Vaanampadi () is a 1985 Indian Tamil-language dance film directed by M. Jayakumar, starring Anand Babu, Jeevitha and Nagesh. It is a remake of the 1982 Hindi film Disco Dancer. The film was released on 24 February 1985, and ran for more than 100 days at Chennai theatres.
Anand grows up as the sole provider for his family, which includes his widowed mother and younger sister, Viji. His elder brother, Raja, runs away from home after being falsely accused of theft and imprisoned by their fatherâÂÂs employer, Dharmalingam. Anand later becomes a street performer under the guidance of his mentor, Muthu. During one of his performances, MuthuâÂÂs daughter Radha dies, deeply affecting Anand. Following this, Dharmalingam has AnandâÂÂs mother arrested on false charges, forcing the family to leave the city in disgrace.
Years later, DharmalingamâÂÂs son Shyam becomes a successful disco dancer but grows arrogant due to his fame. He clashes with his manager Raja and dismisses him. Determined to replace Shyam, Raja discovers Anand dancing on the streets and helps him rise in popularity. Raja subsequently learns that Anand is his younger brother, leading to the familyâÂÂs reunion. Anand is also reunited with RadhaâÂÂs twin sister, with whom he falls in love.
As AnandâÂÂs success grows, Shyam becomes increasingly resentful and attempts to harm both Anand and Viji. Dharmalingam, whose past wrongdoing is exposed, also seeks revenge. The resulting conflict leads to chaos, which Anand and his family must confront in order to restore their lives.
Soundtrack was composed by Bappi Lahiri and ShankarâÂÂGanesh. The highlight of the album is the disco song "Naanoru Disco Dancer".
Kalki criticised the film for having too many stunt sequences, but said the scene where a monkey trains Anand Babu in stunts was first class.