CHAPTER - V A CASESTUDY OF DR. RAJKUMAR S MOVIES Keeping in mind the huge number of movies Dr. Rajkumar acted, here some of the important movies will be discussed so as to outline the variety of characters which the legendary actor enacted showcasing acting talent and his contribution towards the growth of Kannada film industry. It is an irony that an individual who relied on acting to satisfy his hunger went on grow into an industry himself. To make it easier to read and comprehend, keeping in mind the sheer number of 207 movies, the movies have been categorized under, Mythological films, Historical films, Devotional films, Legends and Folklore based films, Films based on Kannada Novels, Social theme films, Bond style films. DEVOTIONAL MOVIES Bedara Kannappa(1954) was a landmark in Kannada film history and benchmark film in the annals of devotional theme films as already discussed. In Bhakta Vijaya (1956) one sees him enacting the role of Santoba, the devotee of lord Vittala. The core theme of the movie was how God sets several tests and tribulations upon his devotee, who eventually triumphs and becomes a much hardened devotee. This movie had numerous memorable songs celebrating devotion. It won the president s medal. Rajkumar and Pandari Bai, the lead actress both won the Film fare awards for the same. Ohileshwara (1956), revolves around a Prince who gives up his kingdom and riches as he is unable to overcome the miseries of those poor and unfortunate. He gives 132
up all worldly pleasures to serve the lepers and hence is called Ohila. This film was special for incorporating several Vachanas ( sayings) of the 12 th century saints. Dharmavijaya ( 1959), was about the triumph of righteousness above all else. Being an honest and upright person he rejects superstition and blind belief for which he is exiled by the King. After several miseries and acts of oppression, the King realizes his folly. Bhakta Kanakadasa( 1960) is a movie detailing the life of Karnataka s very own dasa poet. It traces as to how from a warrior, he becomes a mendicant in the process of a competition going sour and despising in seeking the affection of the woman whom he loves. He soon becomes the disciple of Vyasa Raya and becomes Haribhakta Kanakadasa. His composition are so rich and vast that they gained a classic status which are popular even today. According to popular legend seeking Keshava the lord, Kanakadasa reaches Udupi, where he is denied entry for having been born a Kuruba (Shepherd), a low caste. But his utter devotion prompts the Lord Krishna to turn around and create a hole in the wall of the temple, so that Kanakadasa gets to see the Lord. This hole is still present and is called Kanakana Kindi. Many of Kanakadasa s compositions are sung in the film. These composition are relevant even today, what with him imploring for greater stress on knowledge, breaking caste and communal barrier, espousing oneness of mankind etc. Kaiwara Mahatme 1961) is about Narayanappa from Kaiwara in Kolar, one who could predict the future. Having several miracles to his credit he is considered a legend. Bhakta Cheta (1961), was a movie about a cobbler who makes slippers for the poor brahmins who cannot afford them. Despite his service, poverty and hunger reigns large at his own home. This movie was quite rebellious in nature as the protagonist does 133
not willingly accept his humiliating and oppressive situation. He questions the restrictions placed by a brahminical order and the sovereign. He questions the oppressive and exploitative social controls. Interestingly his wife too questions the discrimination and injustice on the part of religious institutions and the King. Swarnagowri ( 1962) is a mythological film about Kalinga who sings in the court of Lord Shiva in Mount Kailasa. He is falsely accused by the celestial dancer Malini for which he is exiled to the earth. But the vindictive Malini seeks vengeance on earth too. But eventually the persistence and determination of his wife pays off and he is saved. Mahatma Kabir (1962) is about the poet- saint of India. Who is claimed by both Hindus and Muslims as belonging to their religion. Being a devotee of Lord Rama, his couplets (Dohas) reflect universal brotherhood. Incorporating Kabir s own 22 couplets, this movies sends across the message of oneness of religion, futility of claiming superiority of one religion over the other. Among the leading saints in the poet-saint category Santa Tukaram ( 1963) staunch devotion towards Lord Vittalla is deftly brought out by the mazing enactment of the same by Rajkumar. The poet saint belonged to Maharashtra. This has some soulful devotional songs. Continuing with the trend of playing the role of Dasa poets, Rajkumar comes up trumps in his performance of Purandaradasa in Navakoti Narayana ( 1964 ). The film graphically details the life of the distinguished poet saint of Karnataka, whose compositions have gained classic status in classical Carnatic music. The movie is about miserly Sreenivasa Nayaka known for his stingy ways. After divine intervention he realizes the folly of his approach towards life, poor and the lord. He then gives up 134
materialistic world, embraces austerity and moves from place to place singing hymns in the praise of the lord and philosophy of life in common man s language. Aadaddella Olithe aayithu ( All that has happened has happened for good), Manava Janma Doddadu being born a human is the best thing. Rajkumar plays the role of an atheist prince in Shivaratri Mahatme (1964). Blinded by his attraction to a danseuse he banishes his own parents and wife to the forest. The wife through her chasteness and devotion towards Lord Shiva makes him realize his mistakes, but by then he would have suffered enough miseries and lost his vision. Shivagange Mahatme (1964) is all about palace treachery by a corrupt minister, who gets the King played by Rajkumar married to a magical creature after having the queen and her infant prince banished to the jungles. The little prince Ashoka grows with the blessings and guidance of Shivagange and sets out to set things in order to regain his lost wealth and Kingdom. Mantralaya Mahatme (1966) is a movie where Rajkumar is at his best playing the role of the saint of whom he is an ardent devotee in real life too. This real life devotion is reflected overwhelmingly in reel- on screen life too. The movie is based on Swamy Raghavendra s life before he became a monk and subsequently a saint. Rajkumar was so much involved in the making of the movie that he lived a life of austerity, discipline and spirituality. He lived a satwik life throughout the making of the movie. Some of the songs, which are actually hymns have gained iconic status even today. For eg., Indu engae Govinda, where the devotee is beseeching the lord to permit him to worship him. This movie added a spiritual aura to the cine star s personality. The influence of the 135
movie was such that many of his fans believed Rajkuamr to be a manifestation of the saint himself and a messenger of God. Sati Sukanya (1967) revolves around young princess Sukanya who weds Sage Chyavana to rectify her mistake. The older sage s role is enacted by Rajkumar. The young princess during one of her sojourns in the forest accidently blinds the venerable sage, when she a pokes a twig into an ant hill, without realizing that inside the ant hill is the venerated sage himself deep in meditation. Feeling remorse she marries him to offer herself in service of her husband. Pleased by her dedication and faith the gods grant notonly his eyesight but also eternal youth. Bhakta Kumbara (1974) is another milestone in Rajkumar s film career as it is the first movie to be shot in colour. A role tailor made for Rajkumar is about Gora, a potter by profession, who happens to be an ardent of devotee of lord Panduranga. Perhaps the true devotee in him reflects on screen every time he performs the role of a devotee. His involvement has been so deep that one starts identifying himself with the real character he plays out. Such as been his emotional and spiritual display. Many hearts broke and many eyes go moist even today, particularly while watching him trample his own son unknowingly, when he is kneading the clay with his feet. Fortunately for him and the engrossed audience lord Panduranga blesses his devotee, after numerous tests. Interestingly after 15 years after the release of Bhakta Kumbara, Rajkumar acted again in a film based on Bedara Kannappa. But he enacted the role of Lord Shiva, And it was his son Shivraj Kumar who acted as Bedara Kannappa in Shiva Mechchida Kannappa (1988). 136
These above mentioned films belong to genre of Bhakti or devotion. His deep involvement in the roles brought out genuine devotion in front of the camera. As a result Bedara Kannappa, Bhakta Cheta, Bhakta Kumbara, Bhakta Kanakadasa, Raghavendra Swamy, Santa Tukaram are still etched in the cultural memory of Karnataka. LEGENDS AND FOLKLORE BASED MOVIES Folklores and legends give an enormous liberty to the story teller in capturing the imagination of the listener and watcher of the story. It is a surreal real world of imagination, colour, fantasy, magic, intrigue, witchcraft, sorcery, evil and the good. Though folklores are verbal narration of the local belief and culture there is plenty of opportunities for weaving a world of fantasy as it involves incidents bordering on miracles and supernatural. These genre movies have always indulged the fascinations of young and old. Sodari( 1955) was a story of brother and sister. Younger sister Hemavathi is married to the King of Devagiri, She returns to her brother, when their kingdom is struck by a famine, only to be harassed and troubled by her sister in-law. After few years she is finds freedom from her misery when her brother returns back after a prolonged battle. Rajkumar performed the role of the hapless king. Sati Nalayini (1955) is a regressive story of a devout wife who goes great lengths to nurse and cure her husband suffering from leprosy. The role of Nalayini was brought out by Pandari Bai and that of her leper husband Kaushikha was played by Rajkumar. Later she brings home a danseuse, who is smitten by her husband, to please him. Much later he is cursed by a furious sage to be beheaded before sunrise, the loyal wife goes out all the way through her devotion to stall the sunrise itself. 137
Rani Honnamma (1960), this is a total fantasy lore full of magic, witchcraft and evil magician. The hero goes through several weird incidents and as such the film fancies the young and children much more than anybody. Asha Sundari (1960) is again a fantasy ride with quite a few hair-raising special effects to showcase the element of magic. Gunasheela, a young man enacted by Rajkumar is in love with Hemavathi. But their happy life is turned topsy turvy when a celestial women, ( Gandharva Kanya) unleashes her magical power to bring untold misery in their life. Devasundari ( 1962), This movie again revolves around celestial beings and love. Rajkumar plays the role of Shankhapala a celestial being residing in the gods world, who falls in love with Devasundari another celestial being or Apsara. But unfortunately there is competition for Shankhapala in the guise of another young man who is in love with Devasundari. With numerous twists the movies ends on a happy note, with the underlying message that when it comes to respect and regard for divinity, the earthly beings have much more than the divine have for their own clan. Vidhivilasa released in 1962 has Rajkumar playing the role of Madhava Simha, who happens to be the son of an army general. The movie is all about how destiny plays the greater role rather the ultimate role even when pitched against magic and wizardry. Holathikote a short story penned by Govindamurthy Desai, which was published in Karmaveera, a weekly magazine much popular in North Karnataka, was made into a movie called Tejaswini in 1962. It is a beautiful love story highlighting caste issues. Rajkumar palys the role of Shivappa Nayaka in love with Ranganayaki, who belongs to a low caste. The couple in love go against the existing social order and walk into wedded 138
bliss. But their marriage which has upset caste structure raises a furore. Eventually Ranganayaki seeks the help of Nagaraja, the snake god to prove that caste and birth is not important but the character of the person is what matters. B Vittalacharya, who was very popular for magical and mythological movies, came out with another one in 1963, known as Veerakesari in 1963. It has Rajkumar has Narasimha, who raises an army to fight and expose the misdeeds of Shoorasena, the actions of whom has resulted in chaos in the kingdom. This movie has some melodious songs which are hummed even today. Enacting the role of Prachanda, a sage, Rajkumar dons the grease paint as the lead in Chandrakumara in 1963. It is a fatalistic movie, whose theme is all about destiny playing the main role in one s life. Here as Prachanda, rajkumar defies the astrological predictions of the astrologer Marthanda in numerous ways. But in the end he accepts that he cannot fight his fate or his destiny and accepts what is in store for him. Satishakti (1963) sees the thespian in dual roles. Rajkumar plays the role of identical twins, one a hermit another a magician, an evil one to boot. This fast paced movie is all about how the evil magician is taught a lesson by the devout woman. Nagapuja (1965) sees Rajkumar, a serpent prince born as a human. It is a story of love, rejection, revenge and triumph of good over evil. This movie stood out for the fact that for the first time the script revolved around a snake, who takes a human form to pursue the one whom she loves. The Nagakanya when spurned off love from the Naga prince enacted by Rajkumar, creates havoc in the lives of the two. But as in a large number of Indian films the movie ends on a happy note. 139
Rajkuamr plays Prince Chandrahasa and Leelavathi plays the role of Vishaya, the daughter of the evil minister Dushtabuddhi in the movie Chandrahasa, released in 1965. The movie is all about palace intrigues and manipulations which involves the murder of the King Medhavi by the evil minister Dushtabudhdhi. This leads to the young prince escape to the forest and grows up to be a young and valiant prince, enacted by Rajkumar, who woos the daughter Vishaya, the daughter of the wicked minister and marries her. In the end he regains his lost kingdom. In Katariveera (1966), we see Rajkumar playing the role of a brave young man, who saves the kingdom from the hands of an evil minister, who has been plotting to kill the king all the while. Here in the process of saving the kingdom the hero charms the princess too. It is interesting to note that the hero and a set number of people are believers in communist principles and claim the establishment of a regime based on communist ideology as panacea to all the evils the kingdom and the subjects are facing. We come across spells, enchantments, magic and curses in Balanagamma in 1966. Rajkumar plays the role of Balanagamma s husband, the King Karyavardhiraju. Karyavardhiraju s consort played by Kalpana is kidnappad by the evil minister Mayala Marathi Mantrika. Yes, as the name itself sounds the movie is all about magical world, the clash of evil and good and lastly the triumph of good over evil. The King is rendered into a stone when he tries saving his queen. As the story goes, numerous tests and tribulations which the king and queen go through results in a happy ending, with the king and queen ultimately getting back with each other. This movie is still a good example of how within a limited budget one could bring out the best special effects. 140
One beautiful maiden being sought by three young men becomes the crux of Madhumalathi, which was released in 1966. Madhumalathi, played by Bharati, is derived from Betala Panchavimashti, a 11 th century Sanskrit work consisting of 25 tales within a story about a fictional king, Raja Vikramaditya, written by Somadeva. Three men who are magician, an astrologer and a brave young man respectively seek the hands of Madhumalathi. Rajkumar dons the role of Trivikramasena, the role of a brave young man. A song composed by Rashtrakavi Kauvempu is one of the highlights of this movie. Rajashekhara (1967), is a sensitive portrayal of loyalty and fidelity above all else. Here Rajkumar enacts the role of a farmer, whose land is encroached upon by the princess of a neighbouring kingdom. Initially the hero is unable to identify the encroacher as she is in disguise of a man. When he realizes that it is a woman in disguise of a man, he treats her with outmost care and respect and plays up being a good host. Attracted and smitten by his chivalry and sensitivity the princess seeks his hand in marriage. But being the gentleman Rajkumar stands by the woman of his class and strata to whom he is already engaged. Rajadurgada Rahasya (1967) features Rajkumar again in a dual role. The legendary actor plays the role of identical twins who are princes. One wicked man s criminal game plans against the royal household brings in untold miseries on the royal family. But the twin princes go through lengths, fight against the evil person and his villanious plots to restore peace in the kingdom and restore the dignity of the royal family. In Devara Gedda Manava (1967), we see Rajkumar as a supernatural genius, who happens to defeat God in a game of dice and causes many supernatural things to occur. 141
Bhagyadevathe is a movie based on folklore on folk- goddess Kaadusiddamma. Rajkumar plays the role of a King, Chaduranga, who is married to Siddamma. The king is weak enough to be trapped into the palace intrigues and games of other queens, who plot against Siddamma, who happens to be his youngest consort. The youngest queen is banished to the forests. The children of Chaduranga and Siddamma eventually unite the parents when they grow up. Simhaswapna (1968) is the tale of two kings who are brothers ruling two different kingdoms, Dharmapuri and Simhapuri. The kings Dharmasimha and Rudrasimha are poles apart in nature, while Dharmasimha is an ideal king, who follows the values of justice and fairness, the latter is a vile king who is easy on the pleasures and luxuries of life. Rajkumar palys the role of a spy by name Manohara, who brings about the unity between the two brothers. Bahadur Gandu (1976) is a special filmas it is the first movie in the folklore genre to be picturised in colour. It is the tale of valour and bravery, where Rajkumar performing as Panju tames the arrogant and tyrannical princess Kamaladevi and her brother a prince, who would have terrorized the kingdom by they are tyrannical ruling. The tyrannical brother sister duo are upto treating their subjects like filth. Upon the intervention of Panju, the citizens heave a breath of relief and the prince and the princess are taught a fitting lesson. Two songs of this film are immensely popular even to this day and they are hummed on many celebrations and in many stage shows. Muthinantha maathondu gottenamma and Manavanaguveya illa danavanaguveya. Kavirathna Kalidasa ( 1983), is an extremely popular film of the acting legend. In this movie one gets to see the transformation of the actor from an unlettered, worldly 142
unwise, innocent shepherd boy to a great learned Sanskrit poet of his times, who happened to pen the historically famous poetic drama titled Abhijnana Shankunthala. Though the movie deviates from the original story, nevertheless it keeps the audience mesmerized with numerous twists in the plot and several hummable songs which are melodious and lilting. Conned into marrying a well- educated princess, who is told that the innocent shepherd man is an extremely well read and intelligent person. Upon knowing his true illiterate and ignorant ways she is heartbroken. Kalidasa played by Rajkumar, goes on to seek the boon of knowledge and intelligence through his deep and unshaking devotion towards goddess Saraswathi. Later he joins the court of king Bhoja and authors several poems and literary works. The movie is centered around the concept of play within a play, where we see the plot of Shakuntala also unfolding in front of us. Rajkumar plays both the role of Kalidasa who scripted the literary work of Abhijana Shankunthala and the lead character in the same play of that of Dushyanata. KANNADA LITERARY WORKS / NOVELS BASED FILMS Karuneye Kutumbada Kannu (1962) and Kulavadhu (1963), were based on novels Dharmadevathe and Kulavadhu respectively both written by Krishnamurthy Puranik. Tejaswini a movie released in 1962 was based on short story published in a monthly magazine called Karmaveera. Chandavalliya Thota (1964) was based on the novel written by T. R. Subba Rao or Tha.Ra.Su as he was popularly known, Toogudeepa (1966) was based on Sharathchandra Chatterji s novel. Sandhya Raga (1966) was based on A.N. Krishna Rao s work, the immensely popular Kannada writer, who is credited with the inception of progressive movement in Kannada literature. Arasukumar s play was adapted to a movie by name Bangarada Hoovu (1967). Chakratheertha (1967) again was penned by Tha.Ra.Su. Sarvamangala (1968) was written by Chaduranga. Noted 143
Kannada writer Triveni s novel was adapted into Hannele Chiguridaga (1968). Mallamma Pavada (1968) was based on B. Puttaswamaiah s novel. In 1969 there was Punarjanma, based on Tha. Ra.Su s novel. Uyyale (1969) was based on Chaduranga s work. M.N. Murthy and Meena s novel was made into Devara Makkalu in 1970. N. Pankaja s Barale Innu Yamune was adapted into its silver screen version and was named Sepayi Ramu (1972). The super hit Bangarada Manushya was the work of popular writer T. K. Rama Rao in 1972. M.N. Murthy s Swayamvara was based on M.N. Murthy s novel and was released in 1973. Popular writer Vani s novel formed the base of Eradu Kanasu (1974). Sampathige Sawal (1974) was based the play written by B.P. Dhuttaragi. A short story written by Ananda titled, Naanu Neenu Jodi was made into the popular movie Naa Ninna Mareyalare in 1976. Bharatisuta s novel was created on screen as Giri Kanye itself in 1977. Krishnamurthy Puranik s work was adapted into Sanadi Appanna in 1977. Writer Vani s novel Hosa Belaku was turned into a movie of the same name in 1982. Ashwini and Mrigathrishna s literary work was taken for cinematic presention as Kamanabillu in 1983. Chitralekha s Samayada Gombe came out in 1984. Vijay Sasnur novel was adapted into the movie Jwalamukhi in 1985. Again another novel by Vijay Sasnur was made into a movie by name Dhruvathare in 1985. H.R. Radhadevi s novel based film Anuragha Aralithu was released in 1986. Palaku Palaku Olavu written by Kumuda came out in screen avatar under the title of Shruti Seride in 1987. In 1992 was the year for Jeevana Chaitra based on the novel written by Vishalakshi Dakshinamurthy. Three novels of Tha. Ra.Su became the source for the storyline of Akasmika which was released in 1993. Shabdavedi released in the year 2000 was based on the novel written by Vijay Sasnur. Karuneye Kutumbada Kannu( 1962), is a movie about the stereotyped Indian wife who is always ever sacrificing and devoted to her husband and family. Due to her 144
unending martyrdom at the altar of righteousness, she becomes the symbol of Goddess of righteousness or Dharmadevathe. The role of a undeserving husband who loses his eyesight due to his erring ways and vices is essayed by Rajkumar and that of his devout wife, who nurses him back to health, enlightenment and his vision is played by actress Leelavathi Krishnamurthy Puranik s novel Kulavadhu was made into a movie in 1963. This movie is all about how a daughter-in-law is constantly harassed by her miserly and mean father-in-law for dowry. The daughter-in-law is eventually thrown out of the house. Post that the girl is determined enough to seek a college education and gain employment as a teacher. Later she becomes capable enough to clear her father s debt towards her dowry. This not only shames her father-in-law but also opens his eyes. This movie was inspiring on many fronts. It talked about the evils of dowry upfront, while at the same time it raised awareness about girl education and women empowerment. It has beautiful songs penned by noted writers of Kannada literature. V Seetharamaiah s poem, Bendre s ever popular poem on Ugadi, the Kannada new year and another of Govinda Pai s poem of Kannada comparing her to Mother goddess. Another immensely popular film of the cine star was Chandavalliya Thota, which was released in 1964. T. R Subbarao s work which was made into a movie has become a case study of clash of modernity and traditional society. The story set in Chandavalli, a village and is about the disintegration of a prominent joint family headed by Shivananje Gowda. His two children intend to go separate ways seeking division of assets and property. This leads to further discord casting a shadow over the future generations too, eventually disintegrating the whole family. 145
Sharathchandra Chatterji s novel was adapted into the famous Kannada movie Toogudeepa in 1966. An orphan boy falling in love with the daughter of the family which shelters him forms the core of the movie. Here the two lead characters, the male enacted by Rajkumar and the female character essayed by Leelavathi defy their elders to marry. As expected they have to face not only their family s wrath but also the society s. But in the end all ends well. This movie saw the debut of K.S.L. Swamy as the film s director and Srinivas, who essayed numerous negative and supporting roles after his launch, having become popular by the screen name of Toogudeepa as his first name. Sandhyaraga (1966), a beautiful films as its title itself suggests is a fantastic blend of cinematography, music and memorable acting. It is one of the best works of popular writer Anantha Krishna Murthy or A.Na.Kru as was his pen name. It brought many legends together. Purandaradasa s, G.V. Iyer s, R.N. Jayagopal s beautiful verses are sung by the stalwarts of Indian classical music such as Bhimsen Joshi and Balamuralikrishna, with the latter composing the music for the songs with classical background. The movie brought great laurels to the cast and crew in the form of state awards. Rajkumar got his first state award for best actor setting the stage for more such milestones to be set. The movie revolves around the life of two brothers, with one deeply in love with music and other brother who completely detests music. Music would have rendered the music affecionado brother pauper and incapable of saving his wife for want of medical treatment. Though, later in life, he scales greater heights in the music scene, he dies fully disappointed for not having his wife around despite the riches. Bangarada Hoovu (1967) was a fabulous movie regarding creating awareness about leprosy. Rajkumar dons the role of Anand, a boy belonging to an affluent family who sets out to the village after getting a government job. Here in the village he falls in 146
love with the innocent village belle Seetha, enacted by Kalpana. Their marriage hopes are shattered when Seetha is diagonised with leprosy. But the hero stands steadfast by his lady love and marries her after she is cured of leprosy. It surely worked towards demystifying superstitions and blind belief in leprosy and its ills. This movie was based on B.A Arasukumar s play of the same name. Tha.Ra.Su s novel is picked up again to deliver another beautiful movie, with the writer himself making his presence felt as an introducer of the cinema s plot in the beginning of the same. Rajkumar s performance is stupendous with the story happening between two families, with one being rich and the other being poor. How they face the problems and troubles which comes visiting the families is beautifully and deftly handled. This movie titled Chakratheertha was released in 1967. M Subramanyaraje Arasu popularly known as Chaduranga did an amazing job of adapting his novel into a movie titled Sarvamangala in 1968. He not only diected the movie but also penned the dialogues for it. It also has the noted poet K.S. Narasimhaswamy s poem as a song. Natraja, essayed by Rajkumar falls in love with his maternal uncle s daughter Sarvamangala. Upon being drafted into the army and posted to fight for the country during a war, Sarvamangala s greedy and miserly father marries her off to an old but extremely rich person. After the battle Nataraja comes back suffering from Tuberculosis, Sarvamangala nurses him back to health only to die of pneumonia. Triveni s popular novel Hannele Chiguridaga (1968 )was made into a movie of the same name. The movie is all about clash of generations, between a conservative elder order and progressive younger order within a family. Interestingly the movie highlights issues of widow remarriage, seeking respect for acting profession, which is 147
largely looked down upon and compared on par with flesh trade at times, especially if the person of focus happen to be an actress. Kuvempu s ever inspiring lines towards reaching one s aim, goals no matter what the obstacles found a wider audience when incorporated as a song, Nade Munde Nade Munde Nuggi Nade Munde ( Keeping walking, keep walking on to your goals) in Margadarshi (1969 ). The movie based on a novel penned by Tha.Ra.Su has Rajkumar performing the role of village boy who returns to his roots after completing his college education. When denied his fair share in property due to the mechanisms of his uncle, he surrenders himself towards the development of his village. This in turn makes him a role model not only on screen but in real life too it inspired many a youths not to look away from their rural roots but to stay on or return back and strive towards progress and development. In the end the scheming uncle realizes his folly and restores the property to the hero. Due to its inspiring theme and message which was and is still the need of the hour, and the riveting performances of the actors the movie won several awards. Noted director S.R. Puttanna Kanagal directed the legendary actor for the first time in Mallammana Pavada, which was released in (1969 ). This movie was based on a novel written by well -known novelist B. Puttaswamaiah. This movie saw the debut of Vajramuni, a wonderful actor who was largely stereotyped into playing villainous character throughout his career. The movie revolves around two protagonists a daughterin-law and mother-in-law, rather stepmother-in-law. It is all about how the stepmotherin-law, who happens to be the younger daughter of a village zamindar who constantly harasses her step son and his wife, and even declares him insane. Whereas she lets loose her own wicked son to torture the hapless, poor villagers. In the end the daughter-in-law 148
sets everything right, including the wayward son. The role of the abused son was performed by Rajkumar. Punarjanma ( 1969), another movie based on Tha.Ra.Su s novel, starred Rajkumar as a village Patel Chenna, who along with his wife are ever helpful to their village brethren. But the family goes through severe miseries due to continuous scheming of the village priest who is extremely jealous of their fortune and their popularity. But as it is in all Indian movies, the movie ends on a happy note with everything being restored in order. Besides, the novelist penned the dialogues for the movie too. Uyyale (1969) is categorized in the genre of experimental cinema. This movie was directed by N. Lakshminarayana, who had earlier directed Nandi which went on to win national awards. Rajkumar s performance was highly appreciated. And the movie also won awards. The story is about a young woman who confused by all the glamour, dazzle of the life of the rich people and their socializing and partying ways. She is confused between the high life and the normal regular life after the lime lights are out. Seeking to break loose from her orthodox upbringing she confuses the free materialistic life as liberty and liberating. Only the constant tugs of conscience and the negatives of a fast life keeps her introspecting. M.N. Murthy s novel Meena was adapted into Devara Makkalu, which was released in 1970. This movie is about two brothers, who are orphans, who are separated by twist of fate. It is all about how one grows up to be a young man of sound moral values and other a thief, an antisocial element. All ends well in the end when they are united. 149
Barale Innu Yamune a novel penned by N. Pankaja was made into a movie titled Sepayi Ramu( 1972), there are several first to this movie. It was the first Kannada movie to be shot in Chambal valley which was dreaded for being inhabited by the dreaded dacoits. It was the first of the literary works based movie of Rajkumar to be shot in colour. The story is a about a brave Indian soldier who is decorated with the highest gallantry award Param Vir Chakra only to transform into a criminal. Upon his return Ramu played by Rajkumar is devasted to find his younger sister dead after being raped. Before he seeks vengeance for his sister s death he is slapped with false murder charges. This lands him in jail as a convict. In the prison he comes across the dreaded Chambal dacoits. He joins hands with them and travels to Chambal only to lead them out of their criminal ways and reform them. Ultimately he has his revenge and surrenders himself before the law. Bangarada Manushya (1972)was a movie based on T.K. Rama Rao s novel. This was no simple movie. It created such a record that no other Kannada movie has been able to break it. The performance of Rajkumar is seen to be believed and cherished. And so are the movie songs which inspires the youth of Karnataka even today. Perhaps, it was one of a kind movie which brought out the elements of native India beautifully. The cinematic presentation of the rural side, the travails of being a poor farmer dependent on rain fed fortunes or misfortunes, the earthiness of a country life, the lilting songs which went on to inspire thousands if not millions of youth to look at farming and agriculture with respect and dignity, which westernization and urbanization had snatched away makes it an overwhelming experience, which no other Kannada movie has come closer to match in content or concept. 150
The story is about Rajiv, brilliantly essayed by Rajkumar, so much so that it makes one believe it was his own story on screen. Such was his involvement and dedication towards the role. When he arrives at his sister s village to save her family from poverty and deprivation, what he finds is a vast expanse of barren lands. Instead of giving up and moving on he stays put only to strive and struggle hard to turn the barren lands into green lands generating gold. But he runs short of his luck when his own nephews turn against him eyeing the now rich fertile lands generating huge revenue. Adding to his woes is the death of the girl whom he is in love with. Eventually he turns his back on the ungrateful relatives and leaves the village. This movie created cinematic history when it ran successfully for two long years. And has found pride of place among Kannadigas and Kannada film industry. It has infused confidence and self-esteem among numerous youth, especially the rural youth to hold the plough as amatter of pride and not as shame. The songs have amazing character of their own and have become part of Kannada culture. Aagadu endu, Kailaagadu endu( If ones says it is not possible and throws up one s hand in vain, nothing can happen). Nagu nagutha nali nali ene aagali( No matterwhat happens be positive, be happy and keep smiling). Hani hani goodidhare halla( little drops of water make a mighty ocean). Swayamvara (1973), was another deftly handled cinema of Rajkumar and actress Bharati. The story of the movie is derived by the novel of the same name written by M.N.Murthy. The movie was dedicated to Gubbi Veeranna. Rajkumar plays the role of a wrongly sentenced convict who is sentenced to death. Barathi, daughter of a rich man marries him out of convenience for want of property. The lead female character has no love lost for men, she resents them so much that she does not want to have anything to do with them. But her father s will makes it mandatory for her to marry or be deprived of her 151
inheritance. Though it is an eye wash wherein she marries Rajkumar who is sentenced to death, gradually she learns of his innocence and falls in love with him. The rest of the movie is all about how the hero is proved innocent eventually and they living a happily married life. Vani s beautiful drama was made into an extremely successful box office hit Earadu Kanasu in 1974. The film had all the right ingredients towards creating cinematic magic on screen. A fabulous cast including Rajkumar, Manjula, Kalpana, Ashwath, Avadani Lakshmi Devi, Jayashree etc. Directed by Dorai- Bhagawan duo, the movie is about Rajkumar who marries a woman of his parents choice suppressing his own love for another woman. Unable to consummate his marriage as he still yearns for his first lady love, neither he nor his wife are happy. Though the wife ties her best to win his heart, the hero comes around to accept hard reality when he is witness to his former lover leading a happy contented life with her husband and children. This jolts him out of his imaginary world to realize how cruel and hurting he was towards his loving and devout wife. The movie has some lovely romantic duets and numbers along with very memorable devotional songs. Here in this movie Rajkumar is found dressed in suits playing the role of a university professor. B.P. Duttaragi s, a well-known playwright from northern Karnataka, literary work was made into an immensely popular movie Sampaththige Saval in 1974. This movie had Rajkumar displaying his singing skills much to the delight of his ever growing fans. The song Yaare Koogadali oore horadali nanna nemmadige bangavilla ( Let anybody shout, scream, let the whole village fight me, that would not affect my peace of mind)and its picturisation sent the audience into raptures. The movie is about how a youngman 152
challenges his village s tyrannical landlord. In the process the arrogant landlord s daughter falls in love with the man who is up against his father. A young lover boy who unites with lost lady love, amazing scenic locales capturing the tea plantations, soulful songs with beautiful lyrics and lilting music score, racy motor cycle race against a fast speeding train, scary stunts not much seen in Kannada movies was brought in the movie Naa Ninna Mareyalaare based on V.R. Anand s short story titled Naanu Neenu Jodi. Released in 1976, the movie starred Rajkumar along with actress Lakshmi belonging to different strata of society. The young man belonging to a lower middle class is rejected by the affluent girl s mother. Much against the wishes the girl is married off to another rich guy only to be widowed in a short span. Much later when the young hero comes across a dejected, depressed and lifeless widow whom he once desired to marry is devastated. Much to the chargin of the society he goes all the way to convince her to marry him. After much pain and hurt the couple unite in the end. Again apart from a wonderful caste and acting there are wonderful songs which are popular even today. Bharatisuta s novel Girikanye was made into a movie which was released in 1976. Shot among the scenic locales of a tea estate, the movie revolves around the exploitation of the tea estate workers. Rajkumar dons the role of a an estate manager who arrives only to find the labourers being exploited and lady labourers being abused by a motley bunch of villains, who take undue advantage of the kind hearted owner of the tea plantation. The hero sets everything in order by exposing the villanious deeds and also stands by the labourer woman with whom he is in love. Gradually over the years with numerous films under the kitty one notices the music becoming another attraction point of all Rajkumar films. 153
Krishnamurthy Puranik s Sanadi Appanna when made into film saw another gem glistening in the form of Rajkumar s exemplary acting skills. Rajkumar rendered great justice to a poignant piece of literary work. Rajkumar essayed the role of Appanna with such elan that one is mesmerized to believe that in real life too he could play the Sanadi- Shehnai. This is beautiful movie about how society treats artistes who bring so much joy, but the social conditioning lets the people treat them with contempt. It is indeed an irony that people who give so much joy to others live such life of misery and sadness. As the title suggests Appanna is an exponent of Sanadi and falls in love with a danseuse enacted by actress Jayaprada. As he grows successful there are as many people who are jealous of him as much as there are who admire him. The couple are publicly humiliated for their inter-caste marriage, which results in his wife ending her life. Totally destroyed and hurt Appanna brings up his son single handedly without letting the shadow his dead wife s caste effect his son. But the son grows up into successful young man only to detest his father s profession and hide it. Eventually he starts ill-treating his father for his profession. A dejected Appanna walks away from home. In the end happiness come seeking him in the form of his grandson who loves both sanadi and his grandfather. The other plus point of the film other than Rajkumar s acting is the legendary Bismillah Khan s composition and rendering of the cinema s music. Rajkumar performs the role of a young man in love with his elder sister s step daughter, who is ill-treated by her step mother and the rest of the family. The hero s arrival and his affection instills a ray of hope in the harassed girl s life. The storyline of the movie Hosabelaku which saw the light of the day in 1982, was based on a novel of the same name written by noted writer Vani. As his earlier movies this movie too has wonderful music, notable is one of the popular numbers created around Rashtra Kavi 154
Kuvempu s poem, Teredide Mane O Ba Athithi, ( Oh my dear guest, please come in my house is open for you..) and other popular songs. A fast paced movie with numerous twists and turns, keeping the audeince on the edge was Jwalamukhi, movie based on Vijay Sasnur s novel in which Rajkumar performed convincingly as an investigative journalist. As a socially committed journalist the lead actor is out there to expose the evils and exploitation of the downtrodden and the marginalized. In return he is pursued by another woman journalist for her own professional growth and in turn she turns out be a police officer in disguise. A beautiful rendition of Kuvempu spoem Negila hidida holadolu hadutha uluva yogia nodalli ( Look at the saint who sings along while he ploughs the land!) by C Ashwath was one of the highlights of Kamanabillu ( A Rainbow), a movie derived from a novel named Mrigathrishna ( A Mirage) penned by Ashwini. The movie as Rajkumar rendering the role of Suri, a well educated village boy who returns to his roots and picks up farming. Though an equally well educated daughter of the zamindar of the same village falls in love with him, the hero chooses to marry a physically handicapped sister of his friend to lighten his burden and give a new life of hope. Chitralekha s novel was adapted into the movie Samyada Gombe, wherein we have Rajkumar essaying the role of a young boy who leaves home only to return, later, after many years in a different guise wherein he does not reveal his true identity. How this hidden fact leads to a series of mistaken identity forms the crux of the story. Vijay Sasnur s novel Dhruvathare when made into movie had the legendary actor in the role of a do-gooder who fights against society s injustice and evils. A self-taught artist Rajkumar essays the role of a principled young man who takes upon himself to 155
expose the evils of the villain Kalinga who in the guise of gentleman would be conning innocent villagers by trapping them in a never ending debt trap. How he successfully exposes Kalinga, despite being sent to jail on false charges makes up for the rest of the story. Anuraga Anthapura a novel written by H.G. Radhadevi was made into a movie titled Anuraga Aralithu in 1986. We see Rajkumar performing the role of a generous, good Samaritan ever willing to help the needy. Here upon saving the life of a rich man he is offered employment in the rich man s factory. Once settled he is uncomfortable with the pathetic conditions of the labourers and workers of the factory. Much to the chargin of the Fcatory owner s arrogant and strong headed daughter he sets to demand justice on behalf of the oppressed labourers. She plots a scheme wherein she expresses her desire to marry only to seek vengeance and humiliation of him. But at the end she falls for his honesty and integrity and the film ends on happy note. Aakasmika, Aparadhi and Parinama, these three novels of Tha.Ra.Su formed the base of one movie titled Aakasmika starring Geetha, Madhavi and Rajkumar which has the super hit song Huttidare Kannada Nadalli Hutta beku, mettidahare Kannada manna mettabeku ( If one is born, the land should be Kannada land, if one steps on soil that should be Kannada soil..). A song which no Rajyothsava celebration misses all over Karnataka. The movie as the title suggests has accidental incidents playing a significant role throughout. Donning the role of apolice officer who accidently encounters a mysterious woman, who disappears before he marries her. Much later the woman he marries passes away in an accident. Ironically he comes across the first lady love who disappeared mysteriously quite accidently again. How he rescues her from her tormentors makes up for the remaining story. 156
SPY FICTION GENRE OR BOND FILMS In the days of mythological, historical and social films a new genre or rather alien genre to the Kannada movie audience was offered. These movies were largely western themed films based on spies, espionage, suspense, murder, crime and mystery as the underlying theme. It introduced a whole new whole world of western sophistication in terms of storyline, costumes, body language and dialogue delivery. They were racy thrillers with Rajkumar sending his fans on adrenaline high. These genre movies in which Rajkumar acted showed how easily the legendary actor could take to characters which were alien to his culture and language. With him mouthing English dialogues in some scenes made him an wholesome actor for the Kannada audience. For all the above reasons Jedarabale (1968) is considered a landmark in Kannada film history. Rajkumar s character in spy fiction genre movies are largely based on the ever popular Hollywood character James Bond. After Jedarabale, there was Bangalore Mail in 1968. Followed by Dhumaketu in 1968, Goadalli CID 999 in 1968, Operation Jackpotnalli CID 999 in 1969, CID Rajanna in 1970, Operation Daimond Racket in 1976. There are movies in which Rajkumar the lead actor unravels the mystery, they are Trimurthy in 1975, Shankarguru in 1976 and Yarivanu in 1984. Except last three movies mentioned in this genre rest were in black and white. The first suspense film of Kannada film industry was Jedarabale, which came to be rightfully categorized under spy-fiction genre or Bond film genre as is commonly known. Never the one to hesitate to take upon a new characters, the ease at which Rajkumar sunk in the character wholly based on western films, dapperly dressed, using the latest weapons, driving fancy cars, wooing glamorous girls, cabaret dance numbers 157
was unthinkable for the kind of roles he was essaying till then, which mostly revolved around devotional, mythological, historical or social dramas. In Jedarabale or The spider s web, Rajkumar for the first time essayed the role of secret service agent working for the government of India. Known by the name of CID 999 he is assigned the task of unraveling the case of counterfeiting currency notes. With the help of his lady assistant Baby, agent CID 999 sets out to resolve the kidnapping of a retired police officer working at the Nasik mint by a gang of counterfeiters. It is no easy task as the criminals organization is a very complex system comparable to that of a spider s web. But the agent being exceptionally clever, intelligent and brave brings the culprits to book. Bhavanarayana s story forms the backdrop for another intense thriller Bangalore Mail. In this suspense thriller Rajkumar dons the role of a detective Shyamsundar and Narasimha Raju as his friend Balu. During the course of travelling in a train, Bangalore Mail, a murder occurs and Balu gets kidnapped by the ones responsible for the murder as he is a witness to it. Finding his kidnapped friend and solving the murder becomes the focus for detective Shyamsundar. This movie was shot in several other languages and released simultaneously. Dhoomaketu has Rajkumar donning the role of a detective again, who is assigned with the task of solving a murder case. But what happens enroute while resolving the case surprises the detective opening a can of worms. In the course of investigation he stumbles across various issues and incidents, all interconnected which exposes many a so called dignitaries and upright citizens, who are in fact criminals and antisocial elements, involved in smuggling and other illegal activities. 158
Goadalli CID 999 a sequel to the first saw the debut of talented actress Lakshmi. The story revolves around a genius scientist who has invented a rocket missile which has the capability to travel a distance of 200 kilometers. Enemies of the country kill the scientist and steal the rocket missile. They put a ransom demand, failure to be met is threatened with an attack on the national capital. CID 999 enters the scene when the earlier detectives sent to investigate the case are murdered. As is with the spy fiction movie, this movie too has a happy ending. Rajkumar comes back again as CID 999 in Operation Jackpot. This movie was a debut film of an actress of whom the nation is still in awe of- Rekha, daughter of popular Tamil actor Gemini Ganeshan started her movie career in Kannada film industry. An unusual story about a special binoculars sets the movie in motion. It is an unusual plot with the kidnapping of the scientist who invented this binoculars, which can actually identify winning horses in horse racing. Unscrupulous elements indulge in large scale rigging of the horse races with they being able to bet on winning horses and cheating thousands of people in the process. The government gets wind of this and sends a team of detectives to investigate only to find them murdered by the emboldened criminals. Of course Rajkamar as CID 999 is the last resort to resolve the issue. CID Rajanna is all about how an agent is successful in busting a gang of robbers and cold blooded murderers. A police inspector, a hippie, a servant, these are the numerous characters the thespian actor gets into unravel a murder mystery in Trimurthy which was released in 1975. 159