Saturday, January 14, 2023

Made In Bengaluru - Kannada Movie Review

Five minute review of Made In Bengaluru Kannada Movie - which is about struggles and triumph of startup founded by three friends in Bengaluru. Movie features veterans like Anant Nag, Sai Kumar, Prakash Belawadi, Sudha Belawadi, Ramesh Bhat along with new comers Madhusudan Govind, Puneet Manja, Vamshidhar, Himanshi Varma.  Though not great, this movie can be said as a good attempt looking at the dearth of movies made about startups in Kannada.

ಮೇಡ್ ಇನ್ ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು ಚಿತ್ರದ ವಿಶ್ಲೇಷಣೆ ಕೇವಲ ಐದು ನಿಮಿಷದಲ್ಲಿ . ಮೂವರು ಗೆಳೆಯರು ತಮ್ಮ ಕಾರ್ಪೊರೇಟ್ ಕೆಲಸಗಳನ್ನು ಬಿಟ್ಟು ಸ್ವಾರ್ಟ್ ಅಪ್ ಶುರುಮಾಡುವ ಕಥೆ ಇದರಲ್ಲಿದೆ. ಚಿತ್ರದಲ್ಲಿ ಅನಂತ ನಾಗ್, ಸಾಯಿಕುಮಾರ್ , ಪ್ರಕಾಶ್ ಬೆಳವಾಡಿ, ಸುಧಾ ಬೆಳವಾಡಿ ಜೊತೆಗೆ ಹೊಸಬರಾದ ಮಧುಸೂಧನ್ ಗೋವಿಂದ್, ಪುನೀತ್ ಮಂಜ, ವಂಶೀಧರ್, ಹಿಮಾಂಶಿ ವರ್ಮ ತಾರಾಗಣವಿದೆ. ಅತ್ಯುತ್ತಮವಲ್ಲದಿದ್ದರೂ ಸ್ಟಾರ್ಟ್ ಅಪ್ ಬಗೆಗಿನ ಚಿತ್ರಗಳ ಅಭಾವದ ಮಧ್ಯೆ ಈ ಚಿತ್ರ ಒಂದು ಉತ್ತಮ ಪ್ರಯತ್ನ ಅನ್ನಬಹುದು.

Tuesday, November 22, 2022

Kantara - An Analysis of the Phenomenon

What's the connection between Steve Jobs and Kantara! What was unique about Kantara marketing? How it came a pan-India blockbuster. Watch our deep dive into Kantara - the phenomenon! 

In our latest episode in Gaalipata channel, we do a deep dive into the following aspects that made the film Kantara, a global phenomenon.
  • Connect with Belief System
  • Relatable Story
  • Marketing Acumen
  • Cinematic Framework
  • Sustaining Momentum

Saturday, September 03, 2022

Launch of new YouTube channel - Gaalipata

Sandeep Shande and I launched our new YouTube channel - Gaalipata on Indian independence day - August 15, 2022. A kite flying in limitless sky symbolises freedom of expression. Conversations in Kannada about numerous subtle experiences of life is the central theme of "Gaalipata" (means kite in Kannada language) YouTube channel.

In our very first episode, we discuss about our celebrations related to 75 years of India's independence and later in detail review the latest Kannada movie Gaalipata-2. We also flash back to 14 years to discuss our excitement when our blog post on review of Gaalipata-1 was featured in a Kannada ezine in 2008.

Sunday, April 05, 2020

My Poem - Spirit of Life

Background : This poem is inspired by the painting "At the close of a joyful day" by Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema. In the painting, after a joyful day, when the sun is about to set, a person standing at the seashore is observing the waves and is looking into the horizon. I believe this also depicts our mental state in these times of unprecedented challenges, anticipating a bright future ahead.

Spirit of Life 
                       By Raveesh Kumar

Like a high tide in the sea
It's a momentary joy!
Though the sea gone silent since
But the mind has its essence!

Will this day return again
With those wonderful moments
As the white in the marble shining in glow
and the sparkling sunshine subduing the blue!

If change is the only constant
Joy and sorrow take their turn!
Spirit of life remains high
After the times of sigh!

Sunday, November 04, 2018

Sikkim Trip : Lachung, Yumthang Valley and Zero Point

Just like the famous Machu Picchu peak in South America, I thought! Though it was 5 am, it was already bright outside. From the balcony of my room, I was staring at three giant peaks! In comparison, the village below seemed tiny! After a moment, I could also hear the sound of a water fall from a far distance. I could spot a stream on the mountain. But wait, not one but many such streams. As I turned to my left, I saw a sparkling spectacle! Peaks of snow capped mountains glowing like gold in the sunlight!  Wow, I felt like I was being welcomed to Lachung in North Sikkim.

Three Giant Peaks, Lachung, North Sikkim
Three Giant Peaks, Lachung, North Sikkim (Can you spot the deer in the clouds?)
Streams in the Peaks, Lachung, North Sikkim
Streams in the Peaks, Lachung, North Sikkim
Moonlit Morning, Snow capped mountains, Lachung, North Sikkim
Moonlit Morning, Snow capped mountains, Lachung, North Sikkim
Golden Peaks, Lachung, North Sikkim
Golden Peaks, Lachung, North Sikkim

As I was contemplating, I remembered what my guide said,  "It was just the beginning!". But what could be a greater sight than this? Well, after an hour, we were on our way to find out. We felt blessed as we crossed a bridge decorated with Tibetan prayer flags of blue, white, red, green and yellow.

Tuesday, August 28, 2018

Sarkari Hiriya Prathamika Shaale - Humorously Nostalgic and Magically Realistic

How does closing of a Kannada medium school in Kasaragodu in Kerala bordering Karnataka, matter to mainstream Kannadiga audience? Well, it does matter, if you go by the cheerful full house crowd on a weekday, clapping and blowing whistles at every opportunity! When at the end, the stars of the movie appeared in the movie hall – it was an ecstatic atmosphere.

The film opens with children back in the Sarkari Hiriya Prathamika Shaale (Govt Higher Primary School), Kasaragodu, after spending leisure time during holidays. Mischievous Mahendra, Dadda Praveen who has a crush on Pallavi, Innocent Mammootty with his miserly father portray beautiful childhood. With green and scenic coastal background and a potpourri of Kannada, Tulu and Malayalee cultures bring out rich visuals. In addition, it is delightful to hear different dialects of Kannada along with the Kannada dialect of Kasaragodu. Vasuki Vaibhav’s music strikes the right chord both in peppy Dadda song and in classical rendition of Hey Sharade. Moreover, touch of humor in every scene makes the movie thoroughly enjoyable and is more than enough to make us nostalgic.
sarakari hiriya prathamika shaale kasaragodu movie poster

In the meantime, when the funds are not get allocated for school repairs, teachers are not paid on time and when the linguistic minority school is overlooked for government schemes troubles begin in the paradisaical setting.  It reaches a point, when the school has to be closed, citing poor student strength. How the school is reopened form rest of the story.

Telling a serious issue in a humorous way is a challenge. Director Rishab Shetty has succeeded very well in that throughout the movie. Even when the story takes predictable twists towards the climax with themes of corruption and self-interests, humor keeps it going. Rishab has also touched a sensitive linguistic issue without verbal bashing. Kudos on that.

Coming back to the question, I asked in the beginning – how closing of Kannada medium schools outside Karnataka matter to Kannadigas? It matters because it is the state of affairs in Karnataka as well, where Kannada medium schools are closed, due to poor student strength. This film does not delve deep into the reasons but it does create awareness. Looking for reasons - is it because of the mushrooming English medium schools, which is because we don’t have jobs for people who studied in Kannada medium, which is because we with our policies, have created a feudal and corrupt system as such.

Here's the hugely popular trailer of the movie

Tuesday, November 28, 2017

Lost Pages of History

Is History really that boring? OR Does it have elements as gripping as a thriller? I have found out the latter. If you want to know what hidden pearls history reveals, watch this speech of mine. Here is the untold story of Alexander the Great of Macedonia, whose empire was spread in Europe, Africa and Asia. What happened to the huge wealth he and his army acquired during their conquests. Watch my speech/presentation 'Lost Pages of History' to find out!



Buy Chitadanta Here



Sunday, November 19, 2017

Dissecting Munna Bhai MBBS

We are fascinated by great movies. Do you wonder what makes a great movie? Is there a pattern in the great movies, which makes us irresistible to watch them? Surely, there is a formula - ABDCE. Confused? Watch my speech at my Toastmasters Club, ORA*TORS, to find out! It is part of Competent Communicator certification offered by Toastmasters International.

Friday, August 04, 2017

Operation Alamelamma : Thrills, Tickles and Brings Back Memories

Operation Alamelamma had created waves with its captivating trailer and the movie does not disappoint. There is freshness in depicting the love blooming between Purmy, who is doing odd jobs to make a living and Ananya, a school teacher. Purmy's love for branded items makes him fall in love as well as fall into the hands of police on charges of kidnapping. As you might have guessed, it is a suspense thriller, which Suni has handled well. I kept guessing who the culprit was till the end of the movie and was wondering why the name Operation Alamelamma?

Apart from the suspense, which keeps the audience glued, it is Bengaluru's flavor which instills the spirit of our beautiful city. Visit to buttefly park and museum and trek to avalabetta bring back happy memories. Film takes a dig at popular Kannada serials with references such as Vayusaakshi and Amruthadarshini, which is hilarious! Candid market scenes is another way to depict the way of life in Bengaluru.
The song Alaga alaga is melodious. I particularly liked the line comparing heroine to Brihma Kamala (Epiphyllum oxypetalum), pristine white flower which blooms in the night. Another song Tili Sanje depicts the comical way of life of the characters, which is too good. Cinematography is excellent too, with aerial shots of Bengaluru coming out very well. Manish Rishi, the hero, who is making a debut does well to balance the innocent, comical and witty acts. Shraddha Srinath, as a bold and talkative girl impresses too.

Finally, how can a Suni movie be without punchy and witty dialogues? They are seamlessly integrated in this suspense thriller unlike his Simple Love Stories, where they stood out sidelining the plot. On the other hand, authentic Kannada dialect from Mangaluru has been used for comedy, which is been blended nicely. Seems like authentic Mangaluru Kannada dialect is the flavor of the season. Though at some places in the movie, dull moments are felt, it is the pace of the story which keeps the audience moving. Overall, a good movie to watch!

Following is the trailer of the movie - Operation Alamelamma

Tuesday, July 25, 2017

Ondu Motteya Kathe - Subtle, Humorous and Full of Life!

If I tell Ondu Motteya Kathe is about candid confessions of a bald guy, I would be understating. Because it is a movie with subtle humor throughout and full of life. With characters so genuine, dialogues so candid, it is an experience of living the movie rather than watching it!

Janardhan, a Kannada lecturer, is unable to find a suitable match because of his bald head – a prevalent problem these days! His search for an ideal match reveals his own inner self. He discovers that not only there are societal prejudices against him but also he has been harboring preconceived notions. That part delights and the viewer lives the character! Humor keeps the viewer glued as Janardhan narrates his kathe or story and evoking humor is done effortlessly! Dialogues from every day life manage to tickle the funny bone hard. A guy exaggerating the deeds of an astrologer, Janardhan’s relentless efforts to look good, be good and find a companion, his parallel efforts to be away from the clutches of moha or delusion and bits of Dr.Raj’s songs at right junctures have come out very well. Though the movie echoes the universal theme - beauty lies in the heart, it is in its sensitive presentation, Ondu Motteya Kathe scores.
Subtlety is found not only in humor but also in how the characters interact. For example, the hero’s brother though exists in frame from the beginning but their interaction happens only in the second half. But they do communicate non-verbally or using monologues.

In some scenes, I could also find different dimensions. For example, a character says Janardhan is not married - because in addition to he being bald, he is an Indian language lecturer too! Also, in the age of social media, how excitement and anxiety follow each other!

Probably this is the only movie in Kannada, which has used the Kannada dialect from Mangaluru throughout and in its authentic form. Not only the dialogues but the life of coastal Karnataka comes alive in the form of ritual vows to deities, reference to jobs in gulf nations and more importantly, through congenial courtesies! Such a sensitive portrayal is a reason to cherish and is a sure sign of arrival of great movies in Kannada.

Following is the trailer of the movie - Ondu Motteya Kathe


Buy DVD of Ondu Motteya Kathe here


Sunday, June 25, 2017

Kirik Party : Neenire Saniha Song English Translation

Neenire Saniha Neenire is another popular song from the super hit Kannada movie, Kirik Party. Arya infatuated by Karna, the protagonist, is delighted and sings this song. The song contains finer elements of budding love.

ontharaa neene ruvaari honganasige
Translation : you are the sculptor of this beautiful dream, it feels like
saagide ninna savaari ee manasige
Translation : begun is your journey to my heart

ariyadene ninnale ondaago soochane
Translation : without a clue, I am becoming a part of you
arerere naachi hoovvaagi shileyanthaadene
Translation : wooh... am I becoming shy and get frozen?

mugileri nintha surya, kandare suduvantha bhaava
Translation : hasn't the furious sun
maLe billige ranganu udisillave
Translation : draped colors to the soothing rainbow?

naguva chandiranalli, kaleya kaanore illi
Translation : even in the smiling moon, people find dark spots
beLadingala rangaavali ballare
Translation : how they could know the colorful moonlight!

ninage heLalendu maathonde ondu nannalle ulidanthe
Translation : words I wanted to say to you, have remained in me
raviya daari kaayo mandhaarave, nannaseya arithanthe
Translation : like the flower anticipating the arrival of sunlight

neenire saniha neenire, naaLeya parive illave
Translation : when you are close to me, I forget the days to come
neenire saniha neenire, helada maathu noorive
Translation : when you are close to me, I forget what to say

hariva jhariyanthe jaaro ee ninna jeevake
Translation : for your life, likened to the flowing river
sharadhi tereyanthe nee bandarene holike
Translation : the only comparison is a wave of the sea

O manase
Translation : O my heart.
nee bahusha ee manasa rangeriso yojaneye
Translation : probably, you are planning to delight my heart
naachiruve navilanthe marulaagi hodene
Translation : have I turned into a shy peacock, mesmerized by you?

marethu mai marethu, nasu naguve yaara parivillade ee naduveye
Translation : forgetting everyone, I smile at myself these days
arerere naachi hoovvaagi shileyanthaadene
Translation : wooh... am I becoming shy and get frozen?

You can read the review of the film Kirik Party here.
You can view the song in the following youtube link.

Buy Kirik Party DVD here


Saturday, June 24, 2017

How to replace the BESCOM meter, which stopped working?

BESCOM meter of my house stopped showing no reading on display screen. It showed a blank screen. So, I had to replace it. Here are the detailed steps, I followed to get it replaced.

Note : If the BESCOM meter stopped working within 5 years of installation, then it will be replaced free of cost by BESCOM, as it comes under warranty. If not, one has to purchase a new one and install it.
  1. Visit to the Soujanya Counter : 
    • On enquiring in the Soujanya Counter in BESCOM office, I was asked to meet the JEE (Junior Engineer Electrical). He asked me to get the form for granting permission to purchase the BESCOM meter.
  2. Getting the Form for granting permission to purchase BESCOM meter :
    • Above is the form you should get.
    • The form would be available in Karnataka State Licensed Electrical Contractors Association office, which would generally be near to BESCOM office.
    • This form would be filled by the JEE indicating he has granted permission to procure the BESCOM meter.
  3. Get the above form filled and signed by JEE :
    • JEE will fill and sign the form and will tell where the meters are available. 
  4. Procure the meter :
    • In my case, local BESCOM office did not have stock of single phase meters. So, I had to go to AEE BESCOM office in Rajaji Nagar. It has the retail outlet for procuring electricity meters. Following is the address of the same : 
      • AEE BESCOM Office, 41st Cross Rd, Rajaji Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560010
    • Hand over the form filled by JEE and procure the meter. It would be good keep a photocopy of the letter, as the original letter will have to be submitted.
    • Get the purchase bill and check the carton box containing the meter has Test certificate issued by BESCOM and warranty certificate.
    • Cost of the single phase meter was Rs.740/-
  5. Register the meter in the BESCOM office :
    • Come back to local BESCOM office and get the meter registered by JEE.
    • JEE will ask a lineman to install the new meter and ask you to pay him Rs.100/-
  6. Get the meter installed by lineman :
    • Get the lineman to your location to install the new meter.
    • Old meter has to be handed over to the lineman.
Important Notes :
  • You don't have to pay any bribe to get your BESCOM meter replaced.
  • It takes a bit of patience and diligence to get the thing done. JEE may not be available in  his office all the time. So, you may have to wait and but do not loose patience!
  • Even if it is a Saturday, office will be open till 5 30 pm. 
  • Keep the original receipt of purchase of meter, as it would be required to claim warranty later.
  • Keep copy of grant letter and original test and warranty certificates with you.
  • Following were my expenses :
    • Cost of BESCOM single phase meter : Rs. 740/-
    • Installation fees for line man : Rs.100/- 
    • Fuel expenses : Rs.100/-
    • Time Spent : Around 6 hours

Tuesday, June 13, 2017

Kirik Party : Kaagadada Doniyalli Song English Translation

Kaagadada doniyalli is a popular song from the super hit Kannada movie, Kirik Party. Dejected Karna, the protagonist goes on a bike journey to find answers within. The composition, kaagadada doniyalli is a very touching song in such a situation.

kaagadada doniyalli naa kooruvantha hottaayite
Translation : is it time for me to go on a voyage in a paper boat?
kaaNisada haniyondu kannalle kootu muttaayite
Translation : has a drop of my unshed tears, turned into a pearl?

haguraageetenO nannedeya bhaara, kanditeno tampaada teera
Translation : have I become lighter? have I found a calming shore?
sikkite mundina daari, nannellaa kalpane meeri, innondE vismayakaari
Translation : have I found my next path, beyond my imagination? That's the only wonder...

haadiyali hekkida nenapina putta joLige bennallide
Translation : memories from my past trail are gathered in my backsack
aaDadirO saavira padagaLa mooka setuve kanmundide
Translation : bridge of thousand unspoken words is right in front of me,
ee hejjeya gurutellava aLisittirO maLegaalavE
Translation : O rains, you are washing away my trail, leaving no sign
naa ninnaya maDilallirO barigaalina maguvaaguvE
Translation : am I a barefooted child in your lap?

manasaageetenO innoo udaara, banditenO nannaa biDaara
Translation : have I become bit more generous? is my home visible now?
sikkite mundina daari, nannella kalpane meeri, innondE vismayakaari
Translation : have I found my next path... beyond my imagination? That's the only wonder!

You can read the review of the film Kirik Party here.
You can view the song in the following youtube link.

Buy Kirik Party DVD here

Tuesday, May 30, 2017

My Funny Take On Hair Loss Treatment Products

Hair loss is a constant worry for men and women alike! To cash in on this problem, an entire industry has been set up. Many products are sold, promising prevention of hair loss and renewed hair growth. But do they really work? Here, is my humorous talk on these products. I gave this talk in my Toastmasters club, ORA*TORS. It is part of Competent Communicator certification offered by Toastmasters. Hope you enjoy it.
Disclaimer : This post is intended for entertainment purpose only. Product names used here are just for evoking humor! I am not for or against any of these products!

Saturday, May 27, 2017

Use GPS without losing your natural ability to navigate

I have observed how people blindly follow navigation apps while driving, without bothering to notice the landmarks or use their natural ability to navigate. I believe that this habit is slowly eroding our natural ability to navigate. Now, it has been confirmed by researchers in Royal Institute of Navigation, London. In my following speech(of 7 minutes), I present three simple steps to retain our natural ability to navigate, even when we are using the GPS based navigation apps. I gave this talk in my Toastmasters club, ORA*TORS.  It is part of Competent Communicator certification offered by Toastmasters. Hope you find it useful.

Sunday, February 12, 2017

Amaravathi - Underbelly Of A Glittering Metropolis

Sanitation is more important than political independence”,
Just as there is no shame in being a labourer for one’s self, so also is there no shame in labouring for others

The above two quotes from Mahatma Gandhi emphasizes on the importance of cleanliness and the dignity of labour. B M Giriraj’s latest venture, Amaravathi precisely portrays our attitude towards both.

In 2012, stink of Bengaluru’s garbage reached New York and London. Common perception about it was the mismanagement of waste. But few know about the mistreatment of men, who keep our cities garbage and filth-free – garbage collectors and sanitary workers. With realistic portrayal, they find their voice in the movie.

Saturday, January 14, 2017

Kirik Party : Belageddu Song English Translation

belageddu yaara mukhava naanu noDide - song from Kannada movie, Kirik Party is breaking all records in recent times to become the most popular song on internet. It has already crossed 5 million views on youtube. Here is the translation of its lyrics. Hope you enjoy understanding one of the finest composed songs in Kannada.

beLageddu yaara mukhava naanu noDide
English Translation : whose face did I see after waking up in the morning?
andaano adrushTaano munde kuntide
English Translation : is it a beauty or my luck.. is before me sitting…
ninne kanDa kanasu black and white-u, indu baNNavaagide
English Translation : my dream of yesterday was black and white; it has turned colorful today
ninna mele kavana bareyo gamana eega taane moodide
English Translation : my full attention right now is on writing a poem on you …

kanasalli arrererere baLi bandu alelelele
English Translation : In my dreams, you come close… and
muddaaDi aiyyayayayo kachaguLi thaaLalaare
English Translation : caress me, oh!... can’t stand being tickled!

preethiyalli hosa daari kaTTuva khayaali
English Translation : while craving for carving a new path in romance…
aDDadiDDi hogodu maamooli
English Translation : it is usual to go haywire…
sanneyalle haaDondu haaDuva vidhaana
English Translation : one way is to sing a song using signs…
kaadu keLo preethine majaana
English Translation : or is it fun to wait and listen to romantic lines…

biDadantiro besuge
English Translation : Looks like it is a forever binding alliance…
sere sikkiro salige
English Translation : Feels like a rapport has been struck with you…
ninna sutta suLiyo aasigeega aayass hechchi hogide
English Translation : my desire to be around you all the time is only growing…
ninna jothe kaLeyo ella kshanavu kalpanegu meeride
English Translation : the moments I spend with you are beyond my imagination…

You can read the review of the film Kirik Party here.
You can view the song in the following youtube link.

Buy Kirik Party DVD here

Sunday, January 01, 2017

Kirik Party Entertains In Parts

As I had seen the video songs of Kirik Party before the release, I had some assumptions and expectations about the plot. Few assumptions did come true but I cannot say the same about the expectations. Film is largely focusses on mischiefs of the last benchers and college gang wars. In between, Kirik Party tries to raise an issue, which is considered taboo.

The film is a nostalgic trip back to the engineering days. Freshers taking on the seniors, pranks played, crushes, college fests delight the audience. You could also be jotting down points in your mind when there is an argument regarding which branch of engineering is best. Songs, which were already a hit add to the scintillating portrayal. Brilliantly composed, Katheyonda Helide Bari Guruthugale College Ali will sure be heard in college farewells. Belageddu Yara Mukhava Naanu Nodide is well written and depicts a love story in its own way.
Kirik Party Poster : Picture Courtesy - filmibeat.com
But the voilent college gang war is a drag at times. Overenthusiastic mechanical professor trying to analyze mechanical problems becomes irritating. The video songs released before the release of the movie, tell bits and parts of the story. So, this has taken out the thrill of understanding the plot details for the first time in theatres. Moreover, movie does not have a great plot. It survives only on dialogues and heroism. In few scenes, I felt Yogaraj Bhat’s style of depicting blossoming love between hero and heroine, which does not enthrall much. So, though the film brings back memories of college life, it fails to engage the audience all the time and entertains only in parts.
Buy Kirik Party DVD here

Sunday, September 11, 2016

Mungaru Male 2 - Just A Drizzle!

First thing first. Mungaru Male 2 is not a continuation of the story from the first part! Then, what is it about?

Story : First half of the movie tries to establish that Preetham’s is a follower of YOLO(you only live once) philosophy. But this has given a single perspective to the character. Girl friends and parties are the mainstay in Preetham’s life. But there is a problem. Preetham gets bored with his girlfriends quite easily. So, the cycle of infatuation and break up repeats. This is a drag at times. In the second half, Preetham lands himself in Nandini’s house, who is about to get married! I think I need not explain, what happens after this. But there is a twist, which though is cliched!

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