The costliest Kannada film?

This is being described as the costliest film ever made in Kannada -- a historical based on the life and times of a warrior chieftain of Bellary.

Gandugali Kumara Rama has Shivaraj Kumar in the lead, the first time the actor has taken on such a role. This comes after the hugely successful Jogi and Anna Thangi. The only other mythological film he has done is Shiva Mechchida Kannapa, in the earlier part of his career.

Incidentally, Kumara Rama was the dream project of Dr Rajkumar, and attempts were made by many to launch the project. But, despite the fact that the script was ready and pre-production preparations were made, the film somehow failed to take off. Now, Shivaraj says he is inspired to play the character his father wanted to do. He also adds that many inputs for the role were given by his father.

The film is produced by  Dr M S Pattabhiram of M S Ramaiah Chitralaya and directed by veteran director Bhargava, who has had a lot of experience directing historical and mythological films. Laya, who has won three Nandi Awards in the Best Actress category, is the heroine. The film was shot in Jaipur, Mysore, Hampi and also in the periphery of Bellary and Hospet. Huge sets were erected in the Abbaiah Naidu Studios as well.

Text: R G Vijayasarathy