Adapting literary works into films is a proven strategy that filmmaker Gurudatha Ganiga believes the Kannada film industry should reconsider, particularly in the current era of lacking substantial cinema. Ganiga, who is gearing up to bring Purnachandra Tejaswi’s novel "Jugari Cross" to the screen, emphasizes the significant role this approach can play in supporting the Kannada film industry. Reflecting on the cinema of the past, he notes that many successful Kannada films from the '70s and '80s were based on novels, creating a strong connection with audiences and achieving great success. Ganiga advocates a return to this practice to maintain Kannada cinema's unique identity and cultural richness. He suggests that by adapting more novels, Kannada cinema can create films that are both authentic and meaningful, preserving the industry's ties to literary and cultural heritage. Ganiga envisions a rejuvenated Kannada cinema that remains true to its origins while also evolving to meet contemporary demands. He expresses his commitment to adapting more Kannada novels for the screen to contribute to the industry's sustainability and growth.Gurudatha Ganiga's connection to his literary heritage can be traced back to his school days, where he was deeply impacted by Purnachandra Tejaswi's novel "Jugari Cross." Recalling his discovery of the book in class 9, Gurudatha describes how it became one of his favorite works in Kannada literature and greatly influenced his creative vision. This influence extended into his filmmaking endeavors, with Gurudatha expressing gratitude for obtaining the rights from Tejaswi's daughters to bring his dream to life. The novel's setting in the fictional town of Malnad and its subtle portrayal of beauty have attracted interest from other filmmakers, highlighting the enduring appeal and potential of Tejaswi's work.