English
Konkani
Mangaluru, September 15: The much-anticipated Tulu film, ‘Pidayi’, has officially released across the coastal region on September 12, captivating audiences with its compelling narrative and stellar technical team. Produced by K Suresh under the banner of Namma Kanasu, the film is written by Ramesh Shettigar and helmed by national award-winning director Santosh Mada .A Journey of Acclaim: International Recognition and Awards .Pidayi’ has already garnered significant attention on the international stage, with official selections at prestigious film festivals in Kolkata, Shimla, Jharkhand, and California. The film made history at the 16th Bengaluru International Film Festival, becoming the first Tulu film to compete in both the Indian Cinema and Kannada Cinema categories. Its powerful storytelling was recognized with the second-best film award at the festival, earning widespread praise.
Stellar Cast and Crew Behind the Vision
The film features a talented ensemble cast led by renowned Kannada actor Sharath Lohitashwa in the pivotal role of Mahamayi. He is joined by:
- Deepak Rai Panaje
- Pushparaj Bolar
- Roopashree Varkadi
- Ila Vitla
- Devi Nair
- Preethesh
- Anil Raj Uppala
- Ravi Varkadi
- Child actors: Monish, Trisha, Dhruva, Neha, Khushi
- DBC Shekhar
- Anita Chandrashekhar
The technical prowess behind ‘Pidayi’ is equally impressive:
- Cinematography: Unni Madavoor
- Editing: Suresh Urs (two-time national award winner, known for the highest number of film edits in India)
- Dialogues: Ramesh Shettigar and DBC Shekhar
- Music:
- Lyrics: Padma Shri Kaithapram Damodaran Namboothiri, Sudheer Attavara (Kannada Sahitya Academy Award winner), Kushalaksi Kanvatirtha (Tulu Academy Award winner)
- Compositions: Ajay Namboothiri
- Vocals: Dr. Vidyabhushan (debut film song), Medha Vidyabhushan, Vijesh Gopal
- Background Score: Deepankuran (Kerala State Award-winning musician)
- Art Direction: Rajesh Bandyodu
- Costumes: Meera Santosh
- Makeup: Binoy Kollam
- Direction Team:
- Chief Associate Director: Vignesh Kulal
- Assistant Directors: Girish Achar Sullia, Pradeep Rao, Vishwa Mangalpadi
- Still Photography: Deepak Uppala
The film was shot in scenic locations around Mudipu and the border regions of Manjeshwar in Dakshina Kannada.
A Unique Showcase of Tulu Art Form
‘Pidayi’ introduces the traditional Tulu art form, Kunitabhajane, to the silver screen for the first time. The lyrics for these unique segments are penned by Yogeesh Adkalkatte and advocate-poet Shashiraj Kavoor, with musical compositions by Sandeep Ballal and Shinoy Joseph, respectively.
Storyline: A Powerful Message of Women’s Dignity
The film’s narrative centers on the arrival of an educated daughter-in-law into the household of Bhojanna (Mahamayi). Witnessing the traditional treatment of women during menstruation, she embarks on a quiet yet resolute resistance. Inspired by the ancient verse, ‘Yatra Naryastu Pujyante Ramante Tatra Devataah’ (Where women are honored, divinity resides), Bhojanna is eventually moved to uphold the dignity of women. This profound theme resonated strongly with audiences during its premiere at the Bengaluru International Film Festival.
