Thadayam is a crime thriller web series based on a true incident. The story is set between 1995 and 1999, and the makers attempt to recreate that period through old telephone models, police jeeps, and simple production design elements. The series follows Adhiyaman, played by Samuthirakani, a sincere but misunderstood police. Though he is dedicated to his duty and has solved cases in the past, he does not receive proper recognition from his higher officials. His investigative methods appear unusual to his colleagues, and he is often criticized rather than appreciated.
During this tense phase in his career, a new police officer named Lakshmi, portrayed by Sshivada, joins the department. Around the same time, a series of continuous murders shocks the police force. As the investigation begins, Adhiyaman discovers certain important clues, but as usual, his findings are not immediately accepted by the department. Initially, Lakshmi is also irritated by his behavior and does not trust his approach. However, after learning about his past achievements and understanding his sharp investigative skills, she slowly begins to respect his instincts.
As the murders continue, the police suspect that the crimes are committed by a psychopath. However, Adhiyaman presents a different theory. He believes that the murders were not carried out by a single person but by more than one individual. He also suggests that the killers are not from Tamil Nadu but may belong to Andhra Pradesh, as similar murders have taken place near the Tamil Nadu border. Following this clue, Adhiyaman and Lakshmi travel to Tirupati police station, where they are shocked to learn that 72 murders have occurred in the same pattern.
The investigation reveals disturbing similarities in all the cases. The killer does not show interest in money or expensive jewelry. Instead, the focus is on sacred yellow threads, gold chains, and a rope resembling a fortress knot. A question mark is also drawn on the wall at each crime scene. The Andhra Pradesh police had been unable to find solid evidence for years, leaving the case pending. When the Tamil Nadu police join the investigation, the case gains momentum, raising crucial questions about the motive behind the 72 murders and the meaning of the symbolic markings.
In terms of performances, Samuthirakani delivers a strong and natural performance as Adhiyaman. His body language and dialogue delivery effectively portray a frustrated yet intelligent officer. Sshivada performs her role with maturity, showing a gradual transformation from doubt to confidence. The supporting actors also contribute well to maintaining the suspense. Technically, the series does a decent job in recreating the 1990s atmosphere, though the period detailing could have been stronger. The background score supports the tension, and the editing keeps the narrative engaging. Overall, Thadayam is a serious crime investigation drama that highlights persistence, intelligence, and teamwork in solving a long-pending case.
