What does it mean to be a true hero? Amoghavarsha asks in Gandhada Gudi

Filmmaker Amoghavarsha J talks about the making of Gandhada Gudi and his relationship with the late Kannada actor Puneeth Rajkumar

Gandhada Gudi opened to a rapturous reception on October 28, 2022 and continues to witness packed halls as people throng to theatres, even on weekday mornings, to catch their beloved Appu on the big screen, one last time.

The untimely demise of Kannada actor Puneeth Rajkumar, fondly known as Appu by legions of his fans, on October 29, 2021 sent waves of shock and grief not just across Karnataka but also among his fans and friends in other states as well. A year later, his swansong Gandhada Gudi, has come as a cathartic experience to all who loved him.

Gandhada Gudi, a wildlife docu-drama directed by national award-winning filmmaker and wildlife photographer, Amoghavarsha J S, captures him and Puneeth traversing across Karnataka, taking in the state’s abundant wealth of flora and fauna. From the thrill of sighting wildlife in reserve forests and deep-diving into the breathtaking waters of Netrani Island to visiting Dr. Rajkumar’s ancestral home and understanding the nature-culture relationship through interactions with the local communities, Gandhada Gudi sees the duo exploring an unknown side of Karnataka.

This emotional ride also looks inwards, as Amoghavarsha delves into who a hero is and recasts Appu in a new light — as a friend, role model and universal human (vishwa maanava). Even as the director laces his stunning visuals with ideas of conservation and coexistence, Puneeth’s humour — witty, lighthearted and self-deprecating — cuts through the social messaging, making it more accessible and intimate.

In a chat with The Hindu, director Amoghavarsha opens up about the making of Gandhada Gudi(GG) and the journey of adventure, learning and self-exploration through Karnataka’s wilderness.

Initially, we just set out to explore Karnataka. As we began, I realized Puneeth was on a clearly-defined quest — to witness nature and wildlife. I, however, wanted to understand what it means to be a hero, to get so much love and affection from the people. That was my quest.  

It was very organic. There is definitely a story arc but it is important to be observant without predefined ideas, which we as filmmakers tend to carry into the field. Magic is only possible when you allow for that serendipity. Especially with the factual domain, the more scope you give to what is happening, the more truthful and connected a story feels.