In the midst of a turbulent period for popular Kannada actor Darshan, marked by his recent transfer to the Ballari district prison, his ardent fans found a glimmer of joy on Friday with the re-release of his critically acclaimed film, “Kariya”. Despite the actor’s incarceration due to accusations of murdering his fan Renukaswamy from Chitradurga, theaters in Bengaluru brimmed with excited movie-goers, eager to revisit one of Darshan’s most significant works on the big screen.
Single-screen cinemas across Karnataka saw unprecedented crowds as “Kariya” hit 50 screens statewide, reigniting the fervor and admiration for the actor whose career now hangs in the balance due to the ongoing legal proceedings. Theater owners predictably anticipated the initial days of the re-release to attract a large number of viewers, a pattern commonly seen in high-profile re-releases, although they expect the frenzied interest to wane slightly over the subsequent weeks.
Originally released in 2003, “Kariya” enjoyed a spectacular run in theaters, stunningly surpassing the 100-day mark in many locations. This gangster film by Prem, who later gained fame for directing “Jogi”, became iconic not just for its vivid storytelling but also for featuring 23 real-life criminals. The filmmakers’ ambitious decision certainly paid dividends, adding a unique realism to the cinematic depiction of the seedy underworld. The re-release, therefore, functions as both a nostalgic trip for long-time fans and an introduction for new viewers to a landmark piece of Kannada cinema.
Remarkably, Darshan’s tumultuous personal affairs, overshadowed by allegations and legal struggles, have not dented his popularity among the masses. The extraordinary scenes on the opening day of “Kariya” underscore his undiminished star power and the unwavering loyalty of his fanbase. Even with an uncertain future regarding his upcoming films, his supporters’ enthusiasm reflects a deep-rooted connection to the actor and his work.
To manage the anticipated rush, security was beefed up at several theaters, especially for the early morning shows. At Prasanna Cinema on Magadi Road, the 10:30 a.m.
. showing turned chaotic as the throngs of fans became difficult to control, leading to the detention of one individual by police for causing a disturbance. These incidents, however, did not deter the enthusiasm surrounding the film’s comeback.
Adding to the electrifying atmosphere, fans could be seen dancing and singing along to popular tracks from the film, particularly “Kenchalo Manchalo” by C. Ashwath, which has retained its catchy allure over the years. This festive-like ambiance within cinema halls echoed the film’s original reception, further testifying to its lasting appeal.
“Kariya” is not only a significant film from Darshan’s filmography but also stands as a pillar in Kannada cinema, known for breaking conventional molds with its authentic casting and striking narrative. Its songs, action sequences, and dramatic arcs have all contributed to its enduring legacy. As it returns to the big screen amidst the actor’s turmoil, it also serves as a testament to the collective memory and cultural impact certain films possess.
The re-release aligns with a growing trend within the industry to bring back hit movies to theaters, a move often prompted by fans’ nostalgia and the constant search for evergreen content. The practice not only renews interest in classic films but also acquaints new generations with the cinema that shaped earlier audiences.
While Darshan fights his legal battles, confined by the walls of Ballari prison, the restaging of “Kariya” serves as both a tribute to his cinematic contributions and a symbol of hope for his supporters who wish to see their beloved star triumph once again. The film’s re-emergence on the silver screen amidst such trying times highlights the indelible bond between a star and his fans – a relationship built on years of emotional investment and admiration that transcends the barriers of personal controversy.
Even as the legal storm continues to brew around Darshan, the resounding success of “Kariya” re-release reminds us of the power of cinema and its ability to offer comfort and escapism during challenging times. In these moments of collective viewing, fans find solace and reminisce about better days, holding on to the hope that their idol will overcome his current predicament and return to entertain them once more.
