As the Kannada film industry watches with bated breath, director Venkat Bharadwaj triumphantly returns, ready to unveil his latest film, “Naguvina Hoogala Mele,” which is slated for theatrical release on February 9. Having established his credentials with the acclaimed “Kempirve,” which not only captivated audiences but also clinched the Karnataka State Film Award for Best Screenplay, Venkat has become a name to reckon with in the regional cinema panorama.
Venkat Bharadwaj, a filmmaker with a refreshing take on the artistry and the business of films, emphasizes that while crafting a film may be a straightforward process, its marketing can be overwhelmingly arduous. “We don’t get enough support during the different stages of a film’s promotion, and I am against paid promotions,” he explicates, shedding light on the struggles of film distribution and the contemporary reliance on virtual platforms and troll pages for publicity – a trend he staunchly opposes. His belief is that the essence of the film should highlight the director’s vision and endeavors without excessive promotion.
Amidst the challenges of the pandemic, Venkat’s film “Omelette” saw a direct OTT release, an event that marked a significant moment for the Kannadian industry, proving that platforms other than cinemas could also be viable for film distributions.
Venturing forward with his father’s legacy, the late CV Shivashankar, Venkat has poured his heart into “Naguvina Hoogala Mele,” a romantic drama inspired by actual events. This film diverges from mere entertainment and delves into social messages interwoven with a love story unfolding over six years. Venkat poses an existential question through his film: “…are we even losing out on love with the current life situations?”
With the production helm undertaken by Sri Satya Sai Arts – a noted banner from the Telugu film circuit trying their hand at a Kannada project for the first time – the film features the fresh pairing of Abhidas and Sharanya Shetty as the central characters. Their chemistry on screen will be buoyed by a talented ensemble, including Girish Bettappa, Balrajwadi, and Benaca Nanjappa.
Venkat emphasizes the film’s selling point: its nature as a wholesome entertainer, untainted by bloodshed or violence, focusing instead on love, emotions, and relationships, making it accessible for family viewing. He takes pride in the film’s picturesque backdrops which were carefully selected from natural locations, including the serene beaches of Kundapura and other scenic spots like Hulikal Ghat, Mastigudi, and Shivamogga. The entire Malnad region, with its rich culture, forms a vivid tapestry against which the film’s narrative is set.
The inception of the film’s story was as organic as its settings – it was sparked by Venkat’s encounter with a coconut vendor in front of a college in Ooty. A morsel of conversation became the catalyst for the screenplay, adapted to resonate with the nuances of Karnataka’s ethos. With two more films queued up for release, Venkat seems to be on a creative spree, undeterred by marketing obstacles.
“Naguvina Hoogala Mele” thus stands as a testament to Venkat Bharadwaj’s directorial vision, one that cherishes authentic storytelling aligned with the aesthetics of natural light and locales. As the release date inches closer, cinephiles and casual viewers alike await with eager anticipation the promised blend of romance and social relevance that this latest Kannadian venture is set to offer.
