What is "thaniyavarthanam"

Thaniyavarthanam is a 1987 Malayalam drama film written by A. K. Lohithadas and directed by Sibi Malayil. It stars Mammootty, Thilakan, Mukesh, Saritha, Asha Jayaram, Philomina and Kaviyoor Ponnamma in the lead roles. The story revolves around a family whose male members have a history of lunacy. School teacher Balan Mash (Mammootty) has an uncle who is mentally ill. It is believed that this illness is hereditary. After the death of the uncle, society starts judging and evaluating Balan's every move and eventually deems him to be mentally ill.