"My connection with coastal Karnataka runs deep," expresses Golden Star Ganesh as he reminisces about his journey in the Kannada film industry. He recalls that the director, producer, and music director of his debut film, "Chellata," were all from Mangaluru. Life has consistently brought him back to Karavali, and destiny played a role in his marriage to Shilpa, who hails from the same region. Over time, his affinity for Tulu culture and the land of Parashurama Srishti has only strengthened. Three years ago, during an event in Mangaluru, he had expressed his aspiration to create a Tulu film. Now, that dream is materializing as Shilpa and he prepare to collaborate on their Tulu movie.
Reflecting on the cultural impact of his mother-in-law, Ganesh shares that she often shares Tulu plays, Yakshagana performances, and clips from Tulu films with him. He admires the talent in the Tulu industry, especially their impeccable comic timing. Having worked with outstanding actors like Aravind Bolar and Arjun Kapikad, he looks forward to collaborating with Sandeep Bedra as the director, Nityaprakash Bantwal as the lead actor, Mohan Bhatkal as the scriptwriter, and Santosh Rai Pathaje as the cinematographer, all of whom have already left their mark in cinema. Ganesh will make a cameo appearance in the film, marking his debut in Tulu cinema. Fluent in Tulu and well-versed in the language, he teases that audiences can expect him to deliver a few dialogues.
"Our Tulu film will spotlight Karavali, reminiscent of how 'Mungaru Male' showcased Coorg," shares Shilpa Ganesh, highlighting the personal significance of the film as a tribute to her roots. Recalling her childhood in Dubai, she remembers returning home for holidays, where her aunts would take her mother and her to watch Tulu dramas at the Town Hall."Mangaluru is a region with abundant cultural and artistic wealth that is largely unexplored. Through this film, we aim to shine a spotlight on Mangaluru, similar to how the film "Mungaru Male" did for Coorg. Our focus is on showcasing the region's tourism, art, culture, and the linguistic excellence of Karavali," says Shilpa.
