Watch Ondanondu Kaladalli

Ondanondu Kaladalli is a critically acclaimed Kannada film that was released in 1979. Directed by Girish Karnad, the movie follows the life of Venkatakrishna, a young man from a small town in Karnataka who dreams of becoming a theatre director. Shankar Nag played the lead role of Venkatakrishna, while Sushilendra Joshi and Vasant Rao Nakod played his close friends, Narahari and Balu.

The movie is set in the 1970s when the theatre scene in Karnataka was undergoing a rapid transformation. The traditional forms of theatre like Yakshagana and Bhavageete were losing their popularity to more modern forms like street theatre and puppetry. In this context, Venkatakrishna sets out to create a new form of theatre that would cater to the tastes of the new generation.

The plot of the film revolves around Venkatakrishna's struggles to bring his vision to life. He faces many challenges along the way, including financial difficulties, disapproval from his conservative family, and conflicts with his friends. But he persists in his efforts, and eventually, his hard work pays off. He manages to put up a successful play that impresses both the critics and the audience.

The movie explores several themes like the conflict between tradition and modernity, the struggle for artistic freedom, and the challenges faced by artists in a rapidly changing society. It also celebrates the spirit of youthful rebellion and the power of friendship.

One of the highlights of the film is its music. The songs, composed by Bhaskar Chandavarkar, are an eclectic mix of traditional and modern styles. They are sung by legendary singers like Bhimsen Joshi and M. Balamuralikrishna, and their haunting melodies have become classics of Kannada cinema.

The performances of the lead actors are also noteworthy. Shankar Nag, who was a popular actor in the 1970s and 80s, delivers a soulful performance as Venkatakrishna. He captures the character's ion, idealism, and vulnerability with remarkable skill. Sushilendra Joshi and Vasant Rao Nakod also give convincing performances as his friends.

Overall, Ondanondu Kaladalli is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time. It was a landmark film in the career of Girish Karnad, who went on to become one of India's most celebrated playwrights and filmmakers. The movie continues to be revered by Kannada cinema lovers for its bold and innovative approach to storytelling and its portrayal of the hopes and dreams of a generation.