Eltuu Muthaa, a Kannada film rooted in the cultural backdrop of Kodagu, is set to bring a regional story to audiences across Karnataka. Produced by Satya S. Srinivasan under the High 5 Studios banner and directed by Ra. Surya, the film features Shaurya Pratap, Ra. Surya, and Priyanka Malali Priya in lead roles. The film’s music has been composed by Prasanna Keshava.
The audio launch and press meet were held at Royal Ritz Resort in Hubballi in the presence of several dignitaries and members of the film fraternity. During the event, acclaimed vocalist Sangeetha Katti was felicitated for completing 50 years in the field of music. The ceremony was attended by Uppin Betageri’s Shri Kumar Virupaksha Swamiji, Kannada Film Producers’ Association President Umesh Banakar, police officer Anil Kumar Bhoomaraddi, and senior advocate and social worker Panduranga H. Neeralakeri, among others.
Sangeetha Katti praised her disciple Prasanna Keshava for his dedication to music and wished the film great success. She also explained the title Eltuu, which refers to “Latitude and Longitude”, adding that she hopes the film earns recognition both nationally and internationally.
Director Ra. Surya revealed that the film draws inspiration from people and events he personally witnessed in Kodagu. “This is not merely a Kodagu story; we are presenting it to the entire state. We didn’t cast based on stardom. After shooting a teaser, it was evident that no one but Shaurya Pratap could play Mutta. We filmed for about 55 days in Kodagu and shot one of the songs near Kanakapura,” he said.
Surya further noted that the team is planning to release the film in the last week of July or the first week of August, with the trailer launch scheduled for July 16 in Bengaluru. The official release date will be announced with the trailer.
Lead actor Shaurya Pratap shared, “Rather than saying I acted as Mutta, I would say I lived as Mutta. This role required deep mental preparation. As a newcomer with a background in theatre, this film gave me a valuable opportunity.”
Lead actress Priyanka Malali remarked, “I wasn’t aware of this specific community in Kodagu until the director briefed me. It took a few days to get into the role, but by the fourth day, I felt I had become the character. We shot for over one and a half months. Even after returning to Bengaluru, I couldn’t shake off the experience. I learned a great deal through this film.”
Actor Cockroach Sudhi, who plays a negative-shaded role, said the team’s passion for filmmaking made it difficult to believe that many of them were newcomers. “They’ve learned a lot through experience and have worked with genuine dedication,” he added.
Co-producer Pavindra Muthappa shared that his association with the film began through a conversation with producer Satya Srinivasan, a long-time friend. “After hearing about the film, I wanted to be involved. I’ve watched the film and am happy with how it has turned out. We hope to do more films in the future,” he said.
The film has already generated interest for its content and regional backdrop, and the trailer is expected to give audiences a deeper glimpse into its narrative. Members of the Eltuu Muthaa team, including actress Baby Priya, executive producer and actor Ruhhaan Arya, and veteran actor Naveen Padil, were present at the launch.
