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Many Kannada movies are all set for Ott releases in February 2025 (Photo Credit – Instagram/Facebook)

These awaited movies have talented actors. Their performances will make the at-home experience more entertaining. Here are the movies that will be available on digital platforms soon.

The year started slowly for Kannada cinema on Ott platforms. Many films had digital streaming partners. However, none of them arrived on Ott in January 2025. The last big Kannada movie to release on Ott was Bhairathi Ranagal. This Shivarajkumar film came to Amazon Prime Video during Christmas last year.

Some delays happened due to Pushpa 2: The Rule. This major film released on Netflix on January 30 in five languages. Max and Ui were affected by this. HD prints of both Kannada films are already available online. This is a cause for concern.

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SandalwoodWhile heartfelt messages poured in from all quarters on Thursday, the day also marks the posthumous release of actor Puneeth Rajkumar’s last movie ‘James’.Tnm StaffFacebook/ Puneeth RajkumarOn Puneeth Rajkumar’s first birth anniversary since his death in October 2021, fans and members of the film fraternity across south India shared messages in remembrance of the Kannada icon on Thursday, March 17. Puneeth, who was fondly referred to as ‘Appu’ and ‘Power Star’, passed away at the age of 46 after a massive cardiac arrest. On his birth anniversary, thousands including some of the biggest names in south Indian cinema remembered Puneeth for his warmth and his talent. While heartfelt messages poured in from all quarters on Thursday, the day also marks the posthumous release of actor Puneeth Rajkumar’s last movie James. From huge cut-outs of the actor to celebrations outside of cinema halls, the movie was welcomed by fans across Karnataka.

SandalwoodTouted to be an action drama, ‘James’ marks the first-time collaboration between Puneeth Rajkumar and director Chethan Kumar.Tnm StaffTwitter/ JamesTheMovie1With the government easing lockdown restrictions, many films have resumed shooting. Sandalwood star Puneeth Rajkumar’s upcoming film James will also be resuming shooting from July 5. The makers announced the news with fans via the official Twitter handle of the movie. Sharing actor Puneeth Rajkumar’s new still from the film, the tweet from the Twitter handle of James read, “Powerstar will be joining #James sets to resume shoot from July 5th with a Jaw-dropping Action Sequence designed by Fight Masters, Ram-Laxman! (sic).” Shot against a rustic backdrop that appears to be an underground tunnel, the new still features Puneeth striking a stylish pose seated on a motorbike. He sports a casual and dapper look in a navy blue tee, checked shirt and blue jeans. The makers also added...

Sandalwood Fans celebrated the release of the much-awaited 'Roberrt' with posters, cut-outs, puja ceremonies and dancing.Tnm StaffSandalwood star Darshan’s movie Roberrt, which is one of the most anticipated Kannada movies of 2021, hit theatres on Thursday. Fans have been eagerly awaiting the movie since Roberrt marks the first film featuring an A-lister to release in theatres post the pandemic-induced lockdown. Cutouts, posters, banners and even fireworks were reportedly used by fans to promote the film. Roberrt was initially scheduled to hit the theatres in April 2020, but the production had to be delayed in view of the pandemic. The movie has attracted positive responses from fans so far, based on their reactions on social media. From Darshan’s performance to the exciting action sequences, fans seem to have enjoyed aspect of Roberrt. Check out some of their reactions here. One person called the film “outstanding” and praised Darshan’s look and performance as a 25-year-old.

SandalwoodThe Dhruv Sarja-starrer was the first big-budget Kannada film to release amid the Covid-19 pandemic. Tnm StaffFacebookThe makers of the Kannada film Pogaru have agreed to delete 14 scenes from the movie after members of the Brahmin community raised objections. The makers and members of the community arrived at the decision after a meeting between the Karnataka Brahmin Development Board and Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday in Bengaluru. Pogaru was the first big-budget Kannada film to release amid the Covid-19 pandemic. A member of the community, Sreekanth, had reportedly said that no community should be targeted in cinemas, and that their sentiments should be taken into consideration. He further stated that they protested because they were hurt, and welcomed the maker’s decision to remove the scenes. The community members had given a deadline of Wednesday evening, failing which they were set to continue protesting. Pogaru Team Deletes 14 Objectionable...

SandalwoodThe 'Roberrt' trailer was released in both Telugu and Kannada.Digital NativeDigital NativeThe trailer of the upcoming Kannada film Roberrt was released on its lead star Darshan’s 44th birthday. The Telugu version of the trailer was released as well, with veteran Tollywood actor Jagapathi Babu playing an important part in the film. On the release of the Roberrt trailer, Darshan tweeted: “Here comes the Telugu version trailer of my upcoming movie #Roberrt. Thanks all for your love & support.” Here comes the Telugu version trailer of my upcoming movie #Roberrt. Thanks all for your love & supporthttps://t.co/Fw0ZdbtZug@umap30071 @UmapathyFilms @TharunSudhir @StarAshaBhat @telugufilmnagar pic.twitter.com/dWSsVEJkeo — Darshan Thoogudeepa (@dasadarshan) February 16, 2021 Watch the trailer here: Roberrt is directed by Tharun Sudhir and has three female leads-- Aishwarya Prasad, Asha Bhat and Sonal Monterio in the cast. According to reports, the film will feature Vinod Prabhakar, son of actor Tiger Prabhakar,...

Sandalwood 'Pogaru' is likely to hit the screens on February 19.Digital NativeThe makers of the Kannada film Pogaru starring Dhruva Sarja have announced the title of the Tamil version of the film. The film is scheduled to release in Kannada, Telugu, Tamil and Hindi and has been titled Semma Thimiru in Tamil. The actor also shared the news on Twitter. The film, scheduled to hit the screens on February 19, is seen as a potential big release after the reopening of theatres in Karnataka. Pogaruu in Tamil as Semma Thmiiru pic.twitter.com/Wsv5BrwVim — Dhruva Sarja (@DhruvaSarja) December 27, 2020 Pogaru was scheduled to release on April 24, 2020; however, it was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic induced lockdown. The film has two heroines, Shanvi Srivastava and Rashmika Mandanna. Actors like Dhananjay, P Ravishankar, Sadhu Kokila, Chikkanna, and Kuri Pratap have been roped as the supporting cast. The technical crew of this film...

SandalwoodThe film set to release in January of 2021 in Kannada, Telugu, Tamil, and Hindi.Digital NativeDhruva Sarja starrer Pogaru directed by Nanda Kishore is all set to release in theatres. The film set to release in January of 2021 in Kannada, Telugu, Tamil, and Hindi, the film will potentially be one of the first big releases since the reopening of cinema halls. The makers of the film have announced the title of the Tamil version of the film and released the poster alongside. Titled Semma Thimiru, actor Dhruva Sarja took it to his Twitter announcing the title. Pogaruu in Tamil as Semma Thmiiru pic.twitter.com/Wsv5BrwVim — Dhruva Sarja (@DhruvaSarja) December 27, 2020 The film has two heroines Shanvi Srivastava and Rashmika Mandanna in the star cast with Dhananjay, P Ravishankar, Sadhu Kokila, Chikkanna, and Kuri Pratap roped in for the supporting cast. The technical crew of this film includes Chandan Shetty...

CINEMAThe Sandalwood actor has signed on a slew of projects in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada. Digital NativeKannada actor Dhananjaya will soon be making his mark in other south Indian film industries as well. Reports are that the actor is on a spree signing deals in Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam. Incidentally, Dhananjaya currently has the Kannada-Telugu film Pogaru in the works, which will mark his debut in Tollywood. Pogaru, directed by Nanda Kishore, has Dhruva Sarja in the lead, with Shanvi Srivastava and Rashmika Mandanna playing the female leads. The star cast includes Dhananjay, P Ravishankar, Sadhu Kokila, Chikkanna and Kuri Pratap roped in for the supporting roles. The technical crew of Pogaru includes Chandan Shetty for music and Vijay Milton for cinematography; the film is bankrolled by Bk Gangadhar under his banner. Dhananjaya also has the Puneeth Rajkumar starrer Kannada-Telugu bilingual Yuvarathnaa, in which he will reportedly be portraying the villain.

SandalwoodThe sets are for ‘Pogaru Annaige Pogaru’, the title track that will feature hero Dhruva along with a group of dancers.Digital NativeDigital NativeKannada film Pogaru was scheduled for release on April 24, but with the lockdown due to the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, it was postponed. The latest reports say that the makers of the film will be erecting a grand set at Hmt in Bengaluru for shooting a song sequence. Sources say that the set will cost the makers close to Rs 1.5 crore, making it one of the most expensive in Sandalwood in recent times. Apparently, the sets are for the song ‘Pogaru Annaige Pogaru’, the title track that will feature the film’s lead star Dhruva Sarja along with a group of dancers. The song, which will be shot in a six-day schedule, will be choreographed by Murali master. Incidentally, the ‘Karabuu’ song in Pogaru released earlier...

SandalwoodKashmira Pardeshi is playing the female lead in the film directed by Vijay Kumar Konda.Digital NativeYouTube/Lahari Music | T-SeriesIt was reported a few months ago that Nikhil Kumaraswamy will be joining hands with Tollywood director Vijay Kumar Konda for a new project titled Rider. On Friday, the makers released the first-look motion poster of the film. Sharing the poster and the link to the Kannada motion-poster of the film, Nikhil wrote, "Presenting #Rider first look (sic)." Presenting #Rider first look https://t.co/etEC92o26s@directorvijays @ArjunJanyaMusic@LahariMusic @LahariFilms pic.twitter.com/EoAlltgC96 — Nikhil Kumar (@Nikhil_Kumar_k) September 11, 2020 According to sources in the know, Rider will be a sports drama with an interesting narrative. The film went on floors before the Covid-19 pandemic, and was halted due to the lockdown. The team has nearly 32 days of shoot left, with shooting expected to resume soon. The film has...

TollywoodBollywood actor Suniel Shetty has reportedly been roped in as part of the cast.Digital NativeThe title of Allu Arjun’s upcoming film with director Sukumar was revealed to be Pushpa a few days ago. Later, it was reported that the filmmakers are in the process of roping in the Bollywood star Suniel Shetty for an important role in Pushpa. Sources in the tinsel town pointed out that Suniel was briefed about his role a few months ago and has given his go ahead and that he may join the sets after the lockdown ends. The buzz now is that the Kannada actor Dhananjay will be a part of Pushpa’s star cast with the filmmakers roping him in for a pivotal role. Earlier, talks were on with Bobby Simha and Raj Deepak Shetty for this role but it eventually went to Dhananjay as it was felt that he would fit in better,...

SandalwoodThe film will mark the actor-director’s debut as a hero.Digital NativeDigital NativeManju Mandavya’s Sri Bharatha Baahubali is gearing up for release on January 17, confirm sources in the know. Manju Mandavya started his career as a director and this film will mark his debut as a hero. The trailer of the film was launched recently and actor Yash recently lent his support for the film via a special video byte. Manju Mandavya has worked in popular movies like Masterpiece (his directorial debut) and Raja Huli (in a supporting role). Masterpiece, starring Yash, established Manju as a bankable director. He has also acted in several films and written the script for many. Produced by Aishvarya Film Productions, Sri Bharatha Baahubali will also have Chikkanna playing the parallel lead while Sarah Harish will be seen as the female lead. On his debut as a hero, Manju Mandavya revealed that after...

ReviewA remake of the Tamil ‘Veeram’, which had Ajith in the lead, director MD Sridhar’s ‘Odeya’ offers plenty for Darshan fans.Aravind ShwethaA do-gooder with grey shades who takes pride in being a son of the soil, a couple of villains for the dishoom dishoom, a namesake female lead, and a few sidekicks to keep the story going. That’s your typical mass masala entertainer. Now insert Darshan and a few well-known faces, and it all adds up to the commercial potboiler Odeya. Director MD Sridhar has 10 movies to his credit, of which five are remakes, and of these, three has Darshan in the lead roles – Porki, Bulbul, and now Odeya. In a bid to remain faithful to the original film, the director seems to have forgotten to hit the delete button even for a few redundant scenes. Gajendra (Darshan) is a vegetable dealer whose life revolves around his brothers Nagendra,...

SandalwoodThe star made it clear that there was no truth in such reports while adding that he was busy with his acting schedule.Digital NativeDigital NativeReports had surfaced a few weeks ago that Kannada star Darshan will be hosting a popular TV show. However, enquiries revealed that it is not true. The star himself made it clear that there was no truth in such reports while adding that he was busy with his acting schedule. Darshan was quoted by Cinema Express as stating, “I can’t act on both platforms. I currently enjoy being on the big screen, which I don’t think I can do on television.” Darshan currently has Odeya gearing up for release on December 12. Directed by MD Sridhar, the film is bankrolled by Darshan’s close friend Sandesh Nagraj under the banner Sandesh Productions. Raghavi Thimmayya (Sanah Thimmayya) plays the female lead in this flick. The...

SandalwoodThe film will officially go on the floors on December 6 in Bengaluru.Digital NativeDigital Native The muhurat of the upcoming Darshan starrer Gandugali Madakari Nayaka happened at Chitradurga on Monday, December 2. The team conducted special poojas at the Shri Barageramma and Ekanatheshwari temples to commence the proceedings with the blessings of the deities. The film will officially go on the floors on December 6 in Bengaluru. Directed by Rajendra Singh Babu, Gandugali Madakari Nayaka will be produced by well-known producer Rockline Venkatesh under his banner. Gandugali Madakari Nayaka is inspired by the historical novel penned by Bl Venu and the director has done extensive research as well to get the characterisation right. The technical crew of this film will comprise Hamsalekha for music and Ashok Kashyap for cinematography. The film will be shot at various locations in Chitradurga, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Rajasthan. Darshan currently has Odeya gearing up for release on...

SandalwoodThe film was originally slated for release on November 1 on the occasion of Kannada Rajyotsava Day.Digital NativeKannada actor Darshan’s film Odeya was initially scheduled to release on November 1 to coincide with Kannada Rajyotsava Day. However this was postponed to December 20. Latest reports now state that the film will hit the marquee sooner and will likely be released on December 12. The filmmakers are currently awaiting clearance from the Censor Board, following which the release date will be officially announced. Odeya is directed by M D Sridhar. The film was earlier titled Wodeyar, but this was later changed to Odeya to avoid any controversies which may arise. The film is being bankrolled by Darshan’s friend Sandesh Nagraj under the banner of Sandesh Productions. Raghavi Thimmayya (Sanah Thimmayya) plays the female lead in this flick. The actor stated in an interview that she landed the role after auditioning for it.

SandalwoodDirected by Vijayanand, ‘Krishna Talkies’ stars Ajay Rao in the lead.Digital NativeDigital NativeKiccha Sudeep will be rendering a song in the upcoming film Krishna Talkies, according to reports. The makers of the film have approached the star to do the honours but the date for the song recording has not been set yet. Sridhar Sambhram is wielding the music baton for this flick. It may be noted here that Sudeep is an accomplished playback singer with several songs to his credit till date. He has worked with music directors such as Rajesh Ramanath, Gurukiran, Sandeep Chowta, Bharadwaj, Mm Keeravani, Arjun Janya, V Harikrishna, Charan Raj, D Imman, and others. Krishna Talkies is directed by Vijayanand and produced by Govindraju. Ajay Rao plays the lead role in this flick with Apoorva, Sindhu Loknath, Chikkanna and Pramod Shetty forming the rest of the star cast. On the acting front, Sudeep’s...

SandalwoodThe horror-comedy, directed by Manju Swaraj, also stars Sadhu Kokila, Ravishankar Gowda, Kuri Prathap and Chikkanna.Digital NativeSruthi Hariharan’s next will be the horror-comedy Mane Maratakkide, which is directed by Manju Swaraj. The film has Sruthi playing the main lead with Sadhu Kokila, Ravishankar Gowda, Kuri Prathap and Chikkanna in supporting roles. Mane Maratakkide is currently in the post-production mode and is scheduled to release on November 15. The crux of the story is about four real estate agents trying to kick out a ghost from a potentially lucrative property and the sequence of horror-cum-comedy that ensues. Abhimann Roy of Taj Mahal fame has scored the music for this film, while cinematography has been handled by Suresh Babu. Sruthi Hariharan’s last film release was Nathicharami, written by Sandhya Rani and directed by Mansore. M Ramesh had bankrolled it under his banner Tejaswini Enterprises along with Jaganmohan Reddy and Shivkumar Reddy.

SandalwoodDirected by Shankar Guru, the action entertainer will star Amrutha Iyengar as the female lead.Digital NativeDigital NativeStills from the sets of the Kannada movie Badava Rascal starring Dhananjay reveals that it is a complete action entertainer. Interestingly, this will be Dhananjay’s first film in an action avatar, something completely different from his usual image. Shankar Guru is wielding the megaphone for this venture, which is under progress. Badava Rascal is produced jointly by Gujjal Purushottam and the film’s hero Dhananjay. Amrutha Iyengar is playing the female lead in this entertainer, which also has Nagabhushana Ns and Masti Manju in supporting roles. Vasuki Vaibhav is composing music for this film. Besides Badava Rascal, Dhananjay also has a number of films in his kitty, including Pogaru. The Kannada film Pogaru, directed by Nanda Kishore, has Dhruva Sarja in the lead role. The film features Shanvi Srivastava and Rashmika Mandanna...

SandalwoodSources in the know say that director Nanda Kishore impressed Dhruva Sarja with a one-liner and this will soon be developed into a script. Digital NativeDigital Native / Dhruva SarjaThe Kannada film Pogaru, directed by Nanda Kishore, has Dhruva Sarja in the lead role. The film features Shanvi Srivastava and Rashmika Mandanna as the female leads with Dhananjay, P Ravishankar, Sadhu Kokila, Chikkanna, and Kuri Pratap roped in for the supporting cast. The technical crew of this film includes Arjun Janya for music and Vijay Milton for cinematography. Pogaru is bankrolled by Bk Gangadhar under his banner. The first schedule of Pogaru was successfully completed last year and the team went on a long break. While rumours were that the producers were not happy with the script and it needed some fine-tuning, it was clarified later that the delay in the second schedule was due to the fact that Dhruva had to gain weight.

SandalwoodThe story is fairly simple, but what makes the movie watchable are the fresh faces – Vaibhavi, Vainidhi and Vaisiri.Aravind ShwethaIn an industry where women-centric commercial films are a rarity, Yaana, the makers claim, is here to fill this gap. The icing on the cake – the film is also directed by a woman. Yaana, meaning journey, is said to be the first Kannada film directed by a mother for her daughters and produced by the father. It’s all in the family. However, the film’s journey has been a little bumpy from the beginning, as it was in the making for 3 long years. Three years is a long time and trends change every year. Has Yaana managed to hold the interest of the audience? Let’s find out. The film opens in a college and shows the routine life of the three female protagonists – Maya – an aspiring DJ, Anjali...

Kollywood Director Narthan, who had directed the original version, is directing the remake as well. Digital NativeDigital NativeThe first schedule of the Tamil movie, starring Simbu and Gautham Karthik, has been wrapped up successfully. Gautham Karthik had tweeted confirming this with the post, “And that's a schedule wrap! Time to go home, relax and plan our next schedule and get back to work asap! ” He also posted a pic with Simbu and wrote, “No matter, heavy winds, scorching heat, pouring rain or dust clouds, all of which we faced today. We keep on moving forward, always forward. Under the direction of #Narthan sir, the Show goes on!” And that's a schedule wrap! Time to go home, relax and plan our next schedule and get back to work asap! — Gautham Karthik (@Gautham_Karthik) June 29, 2019 This untitled film is the remake of the hit Kannada movie Mufti. Director Narthan, who had directed the original version,...

SandalwoodTo be directed by Manju Swaraj, the film is about the owner of a haunted house desperately trying to sell it off.Digital NativeIt was revealed recently that Sruthi Hariharan plays the female lead in Mane Maratakide, which is touted to be a horror comedy. The film is directed by Manju Swaraj who had delivered the blockbuster hit Shravani Subramanya starring Ganesh and Amulya in 2013. Chitra Karniya Ram has been signed up to play the hero in Mane Maratakide, which will have a bevy of comedians such as Sadhu Kokila, Kuri Pratap, Ravi Shankar Gowda, Chikkanna and Giri in supporting roles. While the progress of Mane Maratakide has been kept a secret till now, we hear that it has reached the post-production mode already. The team is planning on releasing the trailer soon while the film’s release is scheduled to happen later next month. However, the date has not been finalised as yet.

KollywoodDirector Narthan, who had directed the original version is directing the remake as well.Digital NativeIt was announced some weeks ago that the hit Kannada movie Mufti will be remade in Tamil with Simbu and Gautham Karthik in the lead roles. According to the latest update on the project, the shooting has commenced already and scenes involving Simbu are currently being shot. Director Narthan, who had directed the original version is directing the remake as well. Simbu will be playing a gangster in this flick with Gautham Karthik appearing as a cop. Shiva Rajkumar’s Mufti turned out to be one of the biggest blockbusters in Sandalwood. Released on December 1st last year, the film has garnered positive reviews. It had collected Rs 15 crores in just five days and the collections went up with just good word of mouth. Reports say that producer Jayanna had made it clear that box...

SandalwoodAbhishek, son of Ambareesh and Sumalatha, makes his debut in a film which also serves as a tribute to his late father.Aravind ShwethaWith Amar, Abhishek Gowda has become the latest celebrity kid to enter Sandalwood. His parents – Rebel Star Ambareesh and Sumalatha – actors-turned-politicians, made their mark in both cinema and politics. From Rajinikanth to Sudeep, Nikhil Gowda and Naani, wishes poured in for Amar, just a day before the film’s release. Darshan and Yash’s fans announced unanimous support to the film. A fan even purchased the film’s ticket by paying Rs 1 lakh, which shows the craze for the late actor and high anticipation from his son. Award-winning director Nagashekhar had claimed that with Amar, he is set to create another Premaloka in Sandalwood. Love stories are considered a safe debut for any actor, but can there be another Premaloka at all? Amar (Abhishek Gowda), a bike enthusiast,...

SandalwoodDirected by Guru Deshpande, the family drama stars Shreyas Manju and Nishvika Naidu in the lead.Digital NativePuneeth Rajkumar will be making a cameo appearance in the upcoming Kannada film Paddehuli. The film already has Rakshit Shetty in a guest role and now Puneeth has been brought onboard. The star will be making an appearance in the climax sequence and it will be the Usp of the film, we hear. The film is scheduled for release on April 19 and the Paddehuli team did not want to reveal about Puneeth Rajkumar’s presence until a few days before the release to maintain the suspense factor. There are speculations that the Kannada Power Star may be appearing as himself in the movie, though this hasn’t been confirmed yet. Paddehuli is touted to be a family drama in which the lead actor plays a musician and a hard core Vishnuvardhan fan. Directed by Guru Deshpande,...

SandalwoodThe film stars Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy’s son Nikhil Kumar and was produced by the Cm’s wife Anitha Kumaraswamy.Digital NativePiracy is one of the biggest issues troubling down the film industry currently. Both big budget as well as small budget films are affected at the box office due to this. The latest film to be hit by piracy happens to be the Kannada film Seetharama Kalyana. The film, which hit the marquee last month, was leaked on YouTube and its producer Anitha Kumaraswamy has filed a police complaint alleging that pirated copies of the film are being circulated resulting in a huge loss for the producers. In her complaint, Anitha, who is the wife of Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, named some YouTube users who were allegedly instrumental in circulating the pirated copies, and requested that action be taken to nab the culprits. She alleged that...

SandalwoodThe film opened to high expectations and has lived up to it.Aravind ShwethaNatasaarvabhowma is the first biggest release of this year and Power Star Puneeth Rajkumar’s fans have more than one reason to celebrate. The trailer of the film, carefully crafted with minimal dialogue, had only hinted about the supernatural element, leaving his fans waiting for more. This was the first time that Puneeth had signed a film of the horror genre and his fans were eager to see his performance on the big screen. The houseful early morning shows are a testament for that. Puneeth collaborating with hit filmmaker Pawan Wadeyar, after their previous venture Ranavikarama, had doubled the expectations from Natasaarvabhowma. The plotline begins with an interesting angle. Gagan Dixit (Puneeth Rajkumar) is an investigative journalist from Kolkata working for a daily newspaper. He comes to Bengaluru looking for a friend but settles in a haunted house,...

SandalwoodDirected by A Harsha, the film is made on a budget of Rs 16.5 crore by the Karnataka Cm’s home banner, Channambika Films.Digital NativeNikhil Kumar’s upcoming Seetharama Kalyana is one of the high budget movies in the Kannada film industry. The film is made on a budget of Rs 16.5 crore, which is big in Sandalwood. However, reports from trade circles are positive that its pre-release business is fetching its makers a handsome price. Earlier, it has been reported that the Hindi dubbing rights and satellite rights of this film has fetched close to Rs 5.5 crore. Now, reports say that its music rights have also been lapped up and the filmmakers have already made a total of Rs 13 crore! Starring Nikhil Kumar and Rachita Ram as the lead pair, the film is being directed by A Harsha. It may be noted here that the hero is the son of Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy.

SandalwoodRemake of the Tamil ‘Aadhalal Kadhal Seiveer’, director Raveen Kumara captures college life, friendships, romance and the resulting tragedy beautifully.Aravind ShwethaTeenage pregnancy is a touchy subject that is mostly frowned upon and seen as a taboo in India. Likewise, society is yet to openly accept and embrace the concept of love and love marriage. In Naduve Antaravirali, director Raveen Kumara has tried to explore these two subjects. The plot revolves around Sanjay (Prakhyat Paramesh) and Nithya (Aishani Shetty), who are college mates belonging to upper middleclass families. Like every teen love story ever, the duo first hang out with friends, chat for hours, fall in love, sneak out of home and go on night outs. All hell breaks loose when their respective families come to know the truth. Obviously, parents of both the teens are against their love story. What begins as a harmless love story turns out to...

TollywoodThe teaser of the movie was released recently and has got a record number of hits on YouTube.Digital NativeKannada movie Seetharama Kalyana is progressing at a brisk pace with its teaser garnering a good number of views online. Starring Nikhil Kumar and Rachita Ram as the lead pair, the film is being directed by A Harsha. While there have been various reports about the film’s release, we now hear that the Hindi dubbing and satellite rights have been sold out for a stellar price of Rs 5.5 crore. This is indeed the highest ever for a Nikhil Kumar starrer. The rights have been bagged by Rk Duggal Studios. Sources in the know say that Nikhil Kumar’s debut movie Jaguar was released in Hindi online and recorded a good number of views and likes. Following this, the rights of Seetharama Kalyana were sold out like hot cakes. Jaguar won...

SandalwoodThe film is produced by Anita Kumaraswamy and directed by choreographer A Harsha. Digital NativeNikhil Kumar made his debut as hero with the Kannada movie Jaguar a couple of years ago and is now getting ready for the release of his second film Seetharama Kalyana. Jaguar had won him the Siima Award for Best Debutant Actor (Male) - Kannada and the Tsr Film Award for Best Debutant Actor (Male) - Telugu. According to trade sources, though the film was a success at the box office, it was not able to recover its production cost due to high promos. However, Jaguar was a good launch-pad for the actor and he is now gearing up for the release of Seetharama Kalyana. With the teaser garnering a lot of attention and gaining a record number of hits, the expectations of this film have been high ever since its launch. To keep up this momentum,...

SandalwoodIt means that the actor’s career graph, which has been sagging with a few recent flops, is looking good again. Digital NativeKannada comedy drama Raambo 2 has completed 100 days at the box office. Trade reports are abuzz with the news that the film has completed 100 days in two single-screen theatres in Mysuru and Shivamogga and several multiplex screens across Karnataka, including Bengaluru. Raambo 2 is one of the few hit movies in Sandalwood this year. And it means that the sagging career graph of its lead actor Sharan is finally looking good again. Sharan’s films have been failing at the box office in the recent past. We hear from source that a car, as in Rambo, plays a pivotal role and the story is centered on it. Directed by Anil Kumar, Raambo 2 has Sharan and Aashika Ranganath playing the lead pair with Chikkanna in an important role. A road film,...

SandalwoodA commercial entertainer, the film is directed by choreographer A Harsha.Digital NativeDigital NativeThe teaser of Nikhil Kumar’s upcoming film Seetharama Kalyana will be launched on the occasion of the Karaga and Chamundi festival that will be celebrated at Ramanagara in Karnataka on July 31 this year. Being a production venture from the Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy’s home banner Channambika Films, the film’s teaser will be launched in Ramanagara as he had won the elections from this constituency. The film is produced by Anita Kumaraswamy and directed by choreographer A Harsha. Starring the Cm’s son Nikhil Kumar in the lead role, the film has Rachita Ram playing the heroine. The others in the star cast include Girija Lokesh, Tamil star Sarath Kumar, and Madhoo with Chikkanna and Ravi Shankar in supporting roles. The technical crew of Seetharama Kalyana comprises Ravi Basrur composing the music and J Swamy cranking the camera. According to reports, Girija Lokesh will be seen playing Rachita Ram’s grandmother and Madhoo’s mother in this commercial entertainer. While there are various rumours about this film, including one that it is the remake of a hit Telugu flick, sources close to Seetharama Kalyana have clarified that it is an original script. Further, it is said that there are chances of it being remade in Telugu very soon. It may be mentioned here that Nikhil Kumar’s debut film Jaguar in 2016 was released in Kannada as well as Telugu. While film buffs are waiting eagerly for the teaser of Seetharama Kalyana to be released on July 31, Nikhil’s next film release will be Kurukshetra, in which he has portrayed Abhimanyu. Based on the Mahabharata, it is the costliest film ever to be made in the history of the Kannada film industry. Kurukshetra boasts a bevy of stars, including Darshan, Ambareesh, Arjun Sarja and others. Also read: Captain service launched in Karnataka Express train to address passenger grievances (Content provided by Digital Native)...

SandalwoodThis mildly entertaining drama is just too predictableRakesh MeharWhat if all the money in the world couldn’t buy you the one thing you need? Would you be able to walk away from all that wealth for the sake of that one unattainable wish? In Amma I Love You, it’s a mother’s life that hangs in balance, forcing Siddharth (Chiranjeevi Sarja) to live the life of a beggar for 48 days. A man who could buy the world served on a silver platter is suddenly reduced to begging for his next meal. How far will he go to save his mother? And what will he learn along the way? These are the questions that this faithful adaptation of the Tamil hit Pichaikkaran is ostensibly discussing. However, it’s the first question that the film is most obsessed with, laying on the “mother sentiment” thickly right from the title sequence. So, as the cast and crew are introduced in photographs with their mothers, a voice-over talks about how mothers are cooks, cleaners, launderers, and so on, all rolled into one. It goes on to describe passionately just how much mothers do for their children and families every day. But, of course! It’s too much trouble to make the lives of mothers easier by creating a gender-equal house, and so, the next best thing is a family tribute. Sithara is introduced to us as the mother who can do no wrong, whose nobility and generosity would put even Mother Teresa to shame. So it’s no surprise that Siddharth is willing to live in abject poverty to save her. Unfortunately, though, Siddharth’s experience isn’t a genuine journey of discovery of how the other side lives, so much as a poor-cation, a temporary jaunt into this "exotic" world of poverty. So, in the middle of this trying ordeal, Siddharth still has the time to go off and be a chef at a pizza parlour, fall in love, and fight dozens of baddies much like any of our other middle class heroes would. Even becoming poor comes easily to this rich man for whom the world is an oyster. It’s only his personal pride that initially gets in the way of his riches-to-rags journey. Once he makes up his mind though, he quickly morphs into an expert beggar, easily wins over friends among his fellow mendicants, and almost breezes through his 48-day “ordeal”. Meanwhile, what most catches your attention is just how much scorn all the other characters in the film have for beggars. The villain’s henchmen, for instance, are ashamed about being beaten up by a beggar. Siddharth’s new girlfriend Bindu (Nishvika Naidu) deletes a selfie of the two of them because there’s a beggar in the background. And even when Siddharth himself rises up to defend his fellow beggars from middle-class scorn, his words drip with condescension and pity. That’s because Siddharth’s experience isn’t really a genuine journey into lives completely different from his own, it’s just a chance to prove how dedicated he is to his mother. As Sithara’s character remarks unknowingly at one point of the film, the desperate lives that they (the begging poor) live is not something “we” could live even for a day. By living it for 48 days, though, Siddharth proves just how much he’s willing to suffer for his mother. Perhaps the only sympathetic moments when beggars are treated as interesting human beings with interesting life experiences to offer are in the comedy track, when two other beggars show our hero the ins and outs of the begging world. Like when they tell him that he looks so plump and prosperous that even Mother Teresa would feel no pity for him. These few sequences work because they present beggars as regular people trying to live a decent life just like the rest of us. The rest of this world presented in the film, however, simply consists of the most predictably tactics to invoke our pity. It’s not as if Amma I Love You is an unwatchable film. With plenty of potboiler elements such as songs, comedy tracks, and fights, the film skips along to a mildly entertaining finish. The songs in the film have been scored fairly well, too. On the acting front, Chiranjeevi is mildly engaging in parts, while Nishvika easily gets the audience to like her. Better performances come from some of the supporting cast like Chikkanna and Prakash Belawadi. But what the film never manages to do is make us genuinely interested in this begging world that our hero suddenly comes to inhabit. Once we’re done with our poor-cation in Siddharth’s company, we can all comfortably return to our own worlds without too much thought about the lives of those less fortunate. Disclaimer: This review was not paid for or commissioned by anyone associated with the film. Neither Tnm nor any of its reviewers have any sort of business relationship with the film's producers or any other members of its cast and crew. Also read: Rakshit Shetty begins work on his next titled 'Charlie 777'...

SandalwoodThe music, handled by Arjun Janya, has reportedly played a major role in the film’s success.Digital NativeKannada actor Sharan was desperately in need of a big hit and he seems to have managed to get one with his recent release Rambo 2. The makers of the film had made it clear that Rambo 2 was in no way connected with Rambo, which was released way back in 2012 and was one of the biggest hits in Sharan’s career. Released on May 18, Rambo 2 is directed by Anil Kumar and has Sharan and Ashika Ranganath playing the leads with Chikkanna in an important role. A road film, the film’s music was handled by Arjun Janya and it has played a major role in the film’s success. As in Rambo, a car plays a pivotal role and the story is centred around it. The entire team that had worked in Rambo was retained for Rambo 2 except for the cameraman and the heroine. Interestingly, the core technician team did not accept any remuneration for working in the film and had decided to accept it only if it turned out to be a successful venture. Directed by Anil Kumar, Rambo 2 has been bankrolled under the banner Laddoo Cinemas by music composer Arjun Janya, cameraman Sudhakar Raj, director Anil Kumar and editor K M Prakash. Bollywood choreographer Shraey Khanna makes his debut in Sandalwood with Rambo 2. It may be recalled that Power Star Puneeth Rajkumar had rendered a song for the album and it went on to become a big hit boosting the expectation levels for the film. Sharan began his acting career way back in 1996 with Prema Prema Prema and starred in films such as Karpoorada Gombe, Yuvarajam Friends, Tananam Tananam, Ee Preethi Yeke Bhoomi Melide, Johny Mera Naam Preethi Mera Kaam, Rambo and others. His recent releases such as Nataraja Service, Raj Vishnu and Satya Harishchandra did not too well at the box office and the star was looking to re-establish himself with a massive success. Sharan will now be moving on to another untitled film that is touted to be the remake of the Malayalam hit flick Two Countries. Also read: Veteran actor Saroja Devi to do a cameo in Puneeth’s ‘Natasaarvabhowma’ (Content provided by Digital Native)...

Sandalwood'Rambo' was a huge hit but 'Rambo 2' reportedly does not have any similarities to it.Digital NativeDigital NativeThe Sharan starrer Rambo 2 directed by Anil Kumar, is all set to hit the marquee on May 18 and the team is busy with the promos. While expectations are high from the film, we hear that Rambo 2 will not be similar to Rambo, which was a big hit in Sharan’s career. Incidentally, Rambo was Sharan’s 100th movie and he had also produced it under his home banner. Speaking about Rambo 2, its creative head Tarun Sudhir had reportedly told Toi it would be completely different from Rambo and there would be no similarities. "The similarity ends with the title, although in spirit both films are alike. Rambo was a comedy thriller, a genre that Rambo 2 also follows, only that this time around, it is a road movie, with nearly 80% of the narrative taking place on a journey,” explains Tarun. While Rambo was centered on one car, it will be two in Rambo 2, he said. The entire team that had worked in Rambo was retained for Rambo 2 and there were just two changes to the cast and crew, with cameraman Sudhakar and heroine Ashika being replaced. Sharan, apart from playing the lead role, is also producing this film under his banner along with music composer Arjun Janya, cameraman Sudhakar Raj and editor K M Prakash. While Sharan plays the lead role in the movie, Ashika will be seen playing the other lead with Chikkanna in a pivotal role. Bollywood choreographer Shraey Khanna will be entering Sandalwood with Rambo 2. Sharan, who is desperately in need of a big hit right now, began his acting career way back in 1996 with Prema Prema Prema and starred in films such as Karpoorada Gombe, Yuvarajam Friends, Tananam Tananam, Ee Preethi Yeke Bhoomi Melide, Johny Mera Naam Preethi Mera Kaam, Rambo, etc. His recent releases such as Nataraja Service, Raj Vishnu, and Satya Harishchandra did not too well at the box office and that star is looking to re-establish himself with a massive success. With Rambo 2 ready for release, Sharan will be moving over to another untitled film which is touted to be the remake of the Malayalam hit flick Two Countries. (Content provided by Digital Native) Also read: Dulquer Salmaan back in Mollywood after a short break...

SandalwoodDirected by Anil Kumar, Rambo 2 is scheduled to hit the silver screens in February.Digital NativeDigital NativeActor Sharan’s Rambo was a big hit way back in 2012 and the star is looking to regain his star status with Rambo 2. Interestingly, Rambo was Sharan’s 100th film and it was his debut as hero. Being a comedy film, it tasted immense success at the box office. Directed by Anil Kumar, Rambo 2 is scheduled to hit the silver screens in February. Sharan, apart from playing the lead role, is also producing this film under his banner along with music composer Arjun Janya, cameraman Sudhakar Raj and editor K M Prakash. Ashika will be seen playing the female lead with Chikkanna in a pivotal role. Speaking about it, one of the film’s producers Tarun Sudhir told The New Indian Express that though the film has been titled Rambo 2, it is not a sequel to Rambo. He reportedly told, “Like in Rambo, a car plays a very major character in Rambo 2, and that’s one of the reasons we went with the title that was quite apt to the story’s theme.” The film's audio teaser and soundtrack have been released already which has upped the expectation levels for it. Rambo 2 is currently in the post-production mode and its makers are planning to release it next month. However, the exact date of its release is yet to be revealed. Rambo that released in September 2012 was directed by Ms Sreenath. It was produced jointly by Atlanta Nagendra and Sharan. While Sharan had played the lead role in the movie, it also starred Madhuri Itagi, Sadhu Kokila and Rangayana Raghu in crucial roles. Arjun Janya has composed music for this venture with Krishna cranking the camera and editor Km Prakash editing it.

EntertainmentThe film has been certified with a UA and is gearing up for release on December 21 as planned. Digital Native Puneeth-Rajkumar.jpgDigital NativeThe Puneeth Rajkumar starrer Anjani Putra has been certified with a UA and it is gearing up for release on December 21 as planned. Starring Puneeth Rajkumar in the lead role, the film has Rashmika Mandanna playing the female lead. The others in the star cast of this big-budget movie are Ramya Krishnan, P Ravishankar, Sadhu Kokila, Chikkanna and Mukesh Tiwari. Hari Priya will be making a special appearance in a song in this flick. Directed by A Harsha and produced by Mn Kumar under his banner Mnk Movies and Jayashreedevi Productions, the film is the official remake of the Tamil movie Poojai. Hari had written and directed the Tamil version with Vishal playing the lead role. Puneeth Rajkumar will be reprising his role in the Kannada version. On remaking the film, director A Harsha has been quoted by The Indian Express as stating, “Yes, this is a remake. Except for the basic premise, this film has nothing in similar to the original Tamil film. We have changed the pattern, screenplay, style of this film. When Puneeth sir saw my script, he felt it completely looked like a new film.” Well, from what the director has said, it is evident that he had tweaked the script to suit the tastes of the Kannada audiences. Ravi Basrur has composed music for this flick with Swamy J cranking the camera and Deepu S Kumar editing it. Puneeth Rajkumar’s last release was Raajakumara which hit the silver screens earlier this year. The film was a massive hit and it has upped the expectation levels for Anjani Putra. Director A Harsha has worked with Puneeth’s older brother and actor Shiva Rajkumar in two films – Chingari and Bhajrangi – and both the films have turned out well at the box office. Enanble Notification: NoTNM Marquee: No...

EntertainmentThe film has been certified with a UA and is gearing up for release on December 21 as planned. Digital Native Puneeth-Rajkumar.jpgDigital NativeThe Puneeth Rajkumar starrer Anjani Putra has been certified with a UA and it is gearing up for release on December 21 as planned. Starring Puneeth Rajkumar in the lead role, the film has Rashmika Mandanna playing the female lead. The others in the star cast of this big-budget movie are Ramya Krishnan, P Ravishankar, Sadhu Kokila, Chikkanna and Mukesh Tiwari. Hari Priya will be making a special appearance in a song in this flick. Directed by A Harsha and produced by Mn Kumar under his banner Mnk Movies and Jayashreedevi Productions, the film is the official remake of the Tamil movie Poojai. Hari had written and directed the Tamil version with Vishal playing the lead role. Puneeth Rajkumar will be reprising his role in the Kannada version. On remaking the film, director A Harsha has been quoted by The Indian Express as stating, “Yes, this is a remake. Except for the basic premise, this film has nothing in similar to the original Tamil film. We have changed the pattern, screenplay, style of this film. When Puneeth sir saw my script, he felt it completely looked like a new film.” Well, from what the director has said, it is evident that he had tweaked the script to suit the tastes of the Kannada audiences. Ravi Basrur has composed music for this flick with Swamy J cranking the camera and Deepu S Kumar editing it. Puneeth Rajkumar’s last release was Raajakumara which hit the silver screens earlier this year. The film was a massive hit and it has upped the expectation levels for Anjani Putra. Director A Harsha has worked with Puneeth’s older brother and actor Shiva Rajkumar in two films – Chingari and Bhajrangi – and both the films have turned out well at the box office. Enanble Notification: NoTNM Marquee: No...

EntertainmentWith the film doing well at the theatres, its Bo collections are expected to soar in the coming days. Digital Native shivrajkumar2.jpgDigital NativeShiva Rajkumar’s Mufti is turning out to be one of the biggest blockbusters in Sandalwood. Released on December 1 amidst a lot of expectations, the film has garnered positive reviews. According to reports from the trade sources, the film has collected Rs. 15 crores in just five days and the collections are soaring with good word of mouth. Reports say that producer Jayanna has specified that box office collections of Mufti have gone over Rs 15 crores with the film being shown in around 250 screens. Going by the way the film is doing at the box office, it is sure to break quite a few box office records in the Kannada film industry, say sources. Starring Srimurali in the lead role, Mufti has Shiva Rajkumar playing a pivotal role. Sources say that Srimurali is extremely happy over the response that the film has been garnering and is contemplating going for a sequel. The modalities of this are being worked out but it is too early to speculate if there would be a sequel for the film, add sources. Directed by Narthan, who has made his directorial debut with Mufti, the film has been produced by Jayanna under his banner Jayanna Combines. While the film starred Shiva Rajkumar in an important role, its lead actors were Sriimurali and Shanvi Srivastava. The star cast also included Vasishta N Simha, Devaraj, Chaya Singh, Sadhu Kokila, Prakash Belawadi, and Chikkanna. Ravi Basrur has composed music for this flick with the cinematography handled by Naveen Kumar. Mufti is high on the action quotient but it has all elements to attract the family audiences as well, which speaks of its success at the box office. With the film doing well at the theatres, its Bo collections are expected to soar in the coming days. Enanble Notification: NoTnm Marquee: No...