Rudra Garuda Purana is a captivating mystery thriller directed by K. S. Nandeesh and produced by Ashwini Lohith under the Ashwini Arts banner. Inspired by the Garuda Purana, a revered Hindu scripture that explores the afterlife, karma, and vivid depictions of hell, the film features Rishi in the lead role and masterfully blends two genres within a single narrative.
The story follows cop Rudra (Rishi) as he delves into an intense investigation surrounding the disappearance of a politician’s son. Alongside the investigative drama, the film gradually introduces chilling paranormal elements linked to events that transpired 25 years ago. This unique interplay of crime and the supernatural builds an air of suspense and keeps curiosity soaring with unexpected twists and turns.
While the movie boasts an intriguing plot and an engaging storyline, it begins at a measured pace, resembling a typical cop drama. The narrative introduces an honest cop, a quick montage of a love story, and a backdrop of crime and injustice, initially giving the impression of a familiar setup. However, as the story progresses, it gains momentum with unexpected twists, subtly drawing you deeper into its unfolding mystery.
The film is well-written, with its supernatural elements adding a layer of intrigue. The reappearance of a bus that met with a fatal accident 25 years ago, where all passengers died on the spot, intertwines with the current investigation into the disappearance of a politician’s son. This mysterious connection leaves one questioning whether the events are supernatural or tied to a chilling concept like horror-infused time travel, constantly fueling curiosity about what lies ahead.
While these unexpected elements deliver surprises, the excessive use of detailed flashbacks and multiple subplots somewhat dampens the narrative’s tension. At times, these intricacies inadvertently reveal key clues to the climax, slightly undermining the suspense.
Rishi returns in his finest form, captivating audiences with his portrayal of a cop caught in a fluctuating moral arc. Whether playing the good cop, a morally ambiguous figure, or a dark character, he anchors the narrative with his strong performance, effortlessly handling the complexities of his role. Special mention goes to his intense action sequences, where his presence shines.
The film also benefits from a solid supporting cast, including Vinod Alva, Avinash, KS Sridhar, and Girish Shivanna, whose experienced performances help carry the story and make the film feel more cohesive, even allowing minor flaws to be overlooked. However, Priyanka, as the female lead, doesn’t add much to the storyline, leaving her role feeling relatively underdeveloped in comparison.
Rudra Garuda Purana has all the ingredients of a compelling suspense thriller. While there are minor areas where the writing and technical aspects could have been fine-tuned, the film excels in its creativity and originality. The fresh and unique elements woven into the narrative keep it unpredictable and engaging. With strong performances, the film holds your attention and delivers an immersive experience. For fans of suspense thrillers, this movie is an entertaining and satisfying watch that won’t disappoint.
