Sandalwood churns out film inspired by late Kannada actor

Ever since Dwarakish Chitra decided to start their latest venture, much has been talked about the film, especially its title, which is currently under confusion. The Sudeep-Bhavana-Priyamani-starrer was initially titled Vishnuvardhana, inspired by the late Kannada actor. Now, we’ve learnt that Bhavana, the leading lady, will be called Bharathi, probably after the late actor’s wife.

“Yes, the heroine in our film is called Bharathi,” confirms Yogi Dwarakish, producer of the film, who adds, “There’s no malice or misrepresentation. In fact, contrary to those rumour mongers who are trying to make Bharathi believe that this is based on Vishnuvardhan’s life, it is not a biography.”

The film, he states, will be something that will make the family happy to have allowed them to use the title Vishnuvardhana. “The story is of a Vishnuvardhana fan. Sudeep was the one who suggested that we title the film so, as it would be most appropriate. When we have the lead actor called Vishnuvardhana in the film, then it is only logical to call the heroine Bharathi,” says Yogi.

He adds, “There is even a scene where Sudeep, who is completely besotted by Bhavana, goes to an astrologer and asks if they’ll get together. The astrologer says with your names being Bharathi and Vishnuvardhana, you’re a pair made for seven births.”

With the title of the film already in controversy, won’t calling the heroine Bharathi create more room for confusion? “Keerthi and Chandana (Vishnuvardhan’s daughters) are like my sisters. Their family is an extension of ours. We have all grown up together. Bharathi, if anything, will proudly grant us the title once she sees the film. I have the confidence,” signs off Yogi.