Bhageerathi

Story: The story, based on Kerege Haara, revolves around Bhageerathi who marries Madevaraya (Kishore). She wants him to dig a lake in Kallanakeri village to which he agrees. But the water body remains dry due to lack of rain. Village priest tells Mallana Gowda (Srinath) that to get the lake filled with water, he has to sacrfifice one of his daughters-in-law. Mallana Gowda has two –- Mallavva (Tara) and Bhageerathi (Bhavana). It’s Bhageerathi who is ready to get sacrificed. How does she prepare for it? The climax is sure to bring a tear or two.
Movie Review: It’s a movie for those who love folk tales -- a non-commercial film with sacrifice as the theme and devoid of fights. The story is set in a village background and may impress old-timers who grew up hearing such tales. Director Baraguru Ramachandrappa needs a pat on his back for selecting a folk story at a time when even romantic and action stories are struggling to find audiences in Sandalwood. Armed with a neat script, Baraguru has done a good job of narration with commercial hero Kishore in the lead role. While the first half moves swiftly, the second half lags a bit.

Full marks to Bhavana for her brilliant performance with dialogues in village dialect. Kishore is impressive. Tara, Srinath, Hema Chaudhury and Padma Vasanthi are graceful in their roles. Music by V Manohar has some catchy folk tunes. Camera by Harish Sundekoppa is pleasing to the eye.