The labyrinth of the human mind is an eternal muse for storytellers, and it has captivated yet another creative individual—Harshiv Karthik. Karthik’s foray into the world of cinema has culminated in his first feature film, “Bahumukham,” a psychological thriller that weaves a tapestry around the complex emotions and dualities that define us. Additionally, Karthik not only helms the project as its director but also steps into the shoes of the leading character, sharing the screen with a cast of fresh talent.
Although Karthik’s formative professional years led him to an IT career in the United States in 2008, his heart remained tethered to the artistic world. His childhood in Visakhapatnam was steeped in admiration for the legendary Telugu filmmakers K Vishwanath and K Balachander—icons who left indelible marks on the film industry. It was during his school years that his proclivity for performing arts was nurtured, leading to an impressive victory at a State level dance competition in 2004.
Trading the unsteady world of cinema for a stable corporate life, Karthik stood at the crossroads where passion meets pragmatism. Supporting his middle-class family was a priority, but the itch to explore film-making never subdued. He dedicated his spare time to learn the craft, with psychological thrillers capturing his fascination—both for their appeal to him as an artist and for their resonance with the audience.
“Bahumukham” unfolds in various locales across Atlanta, Macon, Canton, and the surrounding areas of Georgia, USA. The film’s February-released trailer promised a riveting narrative informed by an engaging soundtrack from the talented Sreecharan Pakala.
The story orbits around Tanveer, a young actor aspirant, whose journey from a detention center to the big city is riddled with a haunting past. He is seen engaging with Disha, a psychotherapist, for his mandatory counseling sessions. With a desire to fulfill his and his mother’s dreams, Tanveer seeks a fresh start while battling inner demons that pose a danger to those in his proximity.
As a drama steeped in suspense, the plot navigates through the protagonist’s inner struggles and dichotomies. Arvind Reddy co-produced the film under the Crystal Mountain Productions banner. Joining Karthik in the debutante brigade is Swarnima Singh, the film’s female lead, and the cast also features Russian dancer Maria Martinova, accentuating the film’s international flavor. Luke Fletcher’s cinematography and Phani Kalyan’s music direction round out the creative ensemble.
Karthik’s innovative spirit shines through his depiction of three characters in the film. Threads from his real-life struggles as a cinephile who grappled with auditions in Hyderabad permeate the storyline. As he reflects on his own trajectory—shaped by familial pressures and career diversions—Karthik embeds his experiences into the film’s narrative tapestry.
A creative collaboration comes alive within the frames of “Bahumukham,” as Karthik employs art to drive the story. Maria Martynova was initially approached for a musical number that fuses the powerful rhythms of flamenco with the storytelling grace of kathak. This partnership evolved as Martynova became an integral character in the film.
Presently, Karthik spearheads his film’s promotion with ingenuity, displaying the “Bahumukham” trailer on an LED screen fastened to a backpack. His treks through the bustling streets of Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam are not just about exposure; they are an opportunity to personally glean viewer feedback.
With its theatrical release slated for March 29, “Bahumukham” is set to navigate the collective conscience. Karthik stands at the precipice of this journey, hopeful in his belief that “Bahumukham,” with its novel concept, will resonate with audiences and mark the ascension of a new storytelling voice in Telugu cinema.
