As the trend of experimental films grows and audiences flock to theaters for re-released ’90s classics, Krishnam Pranaya Sakhi arrives just in time to capitalize on this wave of nostalgia. Starring Golden Star Ganesh, the film is a quintessential ’90s family drama and love story, directed by Srinivas Raju and produced by Prashanth G. Rudrappa.
The movie opens with a grand introduction to a large family—Dodappa, Dodamma, Atte, Maava, Chikappa, Appa, and Amma—welcoming the hero, who makes a dramatic entrance as a clueless groom, unaware of whom he’s marrying. This scene instantly transports viewers back to an era of films featuring joyful, wealthy joint families centered around the hero’s love story. Krishnam Pranaya Sakhi fits perfectly into this beloved throwback genre.
In the first half of the story, the director skillfully disorients the audience by presenting two parallel narratives featuring the same characters. In the first version, Krishna (Ganesh), a wealthy businessman, falls in love with Pranaya (Malavika Nair), a social worker. To win her heart, he joins her NGO, Belaku, as a driver, pretending to be an ordinary man. In the second version, Pranaya is portrayed as Krishna’s confidante and manager, living in his house and assisting him as he pursues his attraction to Jhanvi (Sharanya Shetty). As the story progresses, the audience eagerly anticipates how these two timelines will converge in the second half, connecting the dots and revealing the full picture.
The film boasts a stellar supporting cast that adds depth and warmth to its on-screen family dynamics. Shashi Kumar and Shruthi play Ganesh’s parents, while Srinivas Murthy is Malavika Nair’s guardian. Avinash portrays Sharanya Shetty’s father, and Rangayana Raghu and Kuri Prathap provide humor as comedic antagonists. Sadhu Kokila and Girish Shivanna offer comic relief as Ganesh’s close companions. With many well-known actors contributing their talents, the film creates a rich, heartfelt portrayal of family and relationships.
The film’s humor is both a strength and a weakness. While it offers many genuine, laugh-out-loud moments, some jokes—particularly those that are racist, body-shaming, and generally inappropriate—feel out of place in a family-oriented setting. These elements might be off-putting as they come across as outdated and in poor taste. Despite this, the film still delivers light-hearted family moments and maintains an easygoing tone, with even the antagonists providing comedic relief. Overall, it remains an entertaining, no-brainer watch, though its humor can be hit-or-miss.
Starting with the technical aspects, the music deserves special mention, as the film’s soundtrack was an instant hit upon release. The romantic songs, particularly “Dwapara” and “Chinamma,” received enthusiastic applause in theaters, a rare and exciting response. Music director Arjun Janya is to be commended for these memorable tunes. The cinematography by Venkat Rama Prasad and editing by KM Prakash further enhance the film’s appeal, capturing stunning foreign locations, vibrant outdoor landscapes, and vintage cars. The bright and trendy costumes styled by Varshini Janakiram for Lead actress and also supporting cast in most of the scenes contribute to the film’s visual richness, making each frame visually captivating.
If you’re in the mood for a light-hearted romantic family drama, this Golden Star Ganesh film is perfect for entertaining you this long weekend. With your favorite songs and actors, it’s sure to provide a delightful cinematic experience at your nearest theater.
