The usage of Karnataka’s place names in Kannada film titles is not a novel concept. However, ‘Madikeri,’ a prominent tourism destination in South India, evokes a myriad of memories. One of these recollections is the enchanting mist that shrouds the picturesque hilly region of Madikeri, Karnataka, often featured in songs. Literary luminaries have drawn inspiration from this place, notably in Mysuru Ananthaswamy’s timeless song ‘Madikeri Mel Manju,’ which lingers in memory whenever the name ‘Madikeri’ district is mentioned. Another feather in the cap is the beautiful cinematic song ‘Madikeri Sipayi’ in the Kodava style from ‘Mutthina Hara.’
Now, after a hiatus of 12 years, the state award-winning director A Bangaru, known for ‘Kalgejje,’ returns to the director’s chair with ‘Madikeri.’ For him, the ethereal mist of Madikeri takes center stage in the film. ‘Manju Karaguva Munna’ serves as the subtitle for the title ‘Madikeri.’
The title launch event for the film ‘Madikeri’ took place at SRV Theater on a Saturday evening. Distinguished guests at the event included Sri Sha.Bra.Revanna Siddeshwara Shivacharya Swamy and renowned director S Mahender, who has mentored A Bangaru in the world of cinema. ‘Madikeri’ is produced by Paramahastha Productions and Sri Balaji Cine Combines, with director A Bangaru handling the story, screenplay, dialogues, and lyrics.
Director S Mahender, the ‘Guru’ of A Bangaru, praised his protégé, describing him as a beloved member of his team. He expressed delight in watching ‘Kalgejje’ and anticipated that ‘Madikeri’ would also feature content with a meaningful message. He commended A Bangaru’s emotional depth and extended his best wishes for the film.
A Bangaru, speaking about his project, revealed that he has cast Prithvi Ambar for the lead role, although Prithvi is presently occupied with another film. The film captures the beauty of Madikeri, its misty allure, and the breathtaking natural scenery, harmonizing these elements with melodious songs. The story unfolds across three distinct tracks, and Shalini Bhat plays the female lead. Filming is set to commence in November, the perfect season to capture the splendor of the Madikeri region, according to A Bangaru.
Ravi Shyamanur, one of the film’s producers, shared his long-standing friendship with Bangaru spanning 15 years. He acknowledged Bangaru’s unwavering passion for cinema, citing his previous investment in the Kannada film ‘Padavi Poorva’ and expressing enthusiasm for this new venture.
Joint producer Shivaprakash expressed his delight in having watched ‘Kalgejje’ directed by Bangaru over a decade ago, admiring Bangaru’s dedication to the world of cinema.
The title launch event was attended by Sri Baligar, Mahendra Badalli, and others who extended their best wishes to A Bangaru. Gandharva, known for scoring music in ‘Kalgejje,’ returns as the music director for ‘Madikeri.’ Shalini Bhat and Bhavani Prakash expressed their joy at the commencement of the film.
The cast of ‘Madikeri’ includes Achyuth Kumar, Sudharani, Anu Mukherjee, Sri Shambu, Basu, Vinod Gobragala, Sushmitha, and others, featuring eight prominent characters.
The technical crew of ‘Madikeri,’ the Kannada film, includes three cinematographers – Chandra, Prabha, and Yasin, Arjun Kitty on editing duty, Mass Madha responsible for stunts, Gangam Raju choreographing the dances, and Divya Bharathi in charge of costume design.
