In the 1980s, the film Guri starring Dr. Rajkumar was a super hit. Four decades later, a film with the same title has been quietly made. It carries the English tagline “I Love My School.” Produced under the Vishnudurga Production banner by Radhika S.R. and Chitralekha S., this marks a fresh experience. Selvam Madappan has taken on the responsibility of story, screenplay, cinematography, and direction. The audio rights have been acquired by Lahari Velu’s newly established MRT Music. As part of the film’s initial promotions, two songs composed by Palani D. Senapathi and the teaser were launched in a grand event.
Child actors Mahanidhi and Jeevith Bhushan play the lead roles, while Achyuth Kumar, Jayashree, Ugram Manju, Sandeep Malani, and Manohar shared their experiences from filming.
Speaking on the occasion, director Selvam Madappan said the film is based on a true incident. During a visit to Teralli Betta near Kolar, he came across a government school that had been shut down. The children were playing in a pond with their teachers. On enquiring with the locals, he gathered some insights which were used in the screenplay. The story revolves around the bond between students and a teacher, and the conflict between government and private schools. At one point, the government school is on the verge of shutting down. Upon learning this, two bright and brave students from class 3 start a protest and ultimately succeed — that is the core of the story. Due to weather conditions and working with children, filming took longer. He said their work is done and now it’s up to the audience to support the film.
When one hears the title, it immediately brings to mind the original Dr. Rajkumar film. Selvam has served as a cinematographer in the Kannada film industry for fifteen years, and his craftsmanship is visible in every frame. The film is sure to succeed and even win awards. Palani Senapathi’s songs are melodious. Lahari Velu remarked that while Goddess Saraswati (of knowledge and arts) has blessed him, Goddess Lakshmi (of wealth) is yet to arrive — but one day, Palani will become as famous as A.R. Rahman.
The cast also includes T.S. Nagabharana, Avinash, Pawan Kumar, and Chandraprabha. Editing is by K.M. Prakash, lyrics by V. Manohar and Madhusudan, choreography by Aravind, action by Chinnayya, and art direction by Manju. Filming took place in Bengaluru, Kolar, and Teralli Betta.
