Agnyathavasi

<p>In the village of Nalkeri, Malenadu, during the late 1990s, Inspector Govindu ( ), a police officer and farmer, leads a quiet life where the local police station is largely idle. The mysterious death of landlord Srinivasaiah ( ) is declared a murder by Govindu, surprising the crime-free village. His investigation uncovers ties to a 1970s unresolved case, exposing hidden secrets. The story follows Rohit (Siddu Moolimani), who introduces the village’s first computer, and Pankaja ( ), linked to Srinivasaiah’s estranged son, Arun. A second death deepens the mystery, exploring guilt and silence in a ritualistic narrative set against the village’s eerie calm. In March 2022, Janardhan Chikkanna, director of (2018), announced a murder mystery produced by Hemanth M Rao under Dakshayini Talkies, named after Rao’s mother. Inspired by a 1997 Malenadu murder, the film was written by Krishna Raj. The title Agnyathavasi was revealed on 18 April 2022. Rangayana Raghu was cast as the lead, chosen for his role in (2006), with Paavana Gowda, Siddu Moolimani, Sharath Lohitashwa, and Ravishankar Gowda in key roles. Yamuna Srinidhi and Hari Samashti play supporting parts. Chikkanna and Rao highlighted Raghu’s versatility. Filming began on 20 April 2022 in and , capturing Malenadu’s landscape. The 1990s setting featured period-specific design by Ullas Hydur, including early computer packaging. Cinematographer Advaitha Gurumurthy emphasized the region’s misty forests. Shooting wrapped by early 2023. , known for , composed the score and soundtrack. The background score enhanced suspense, and the song “Naguvina Nesara” was noted for emotional impact. Agnyathavasi was released theatrically on 11 April 2025 after delays to secure post-theatrical rights. The teaser was unveiled on 7 April 2023, and the trailer on 4 April 2025. It began streaming on on 16 May 2025, with television rights acquired by Zee Kannada. Critics generally praised Agnyathavasi for its performances, cinematography, and atmosphere, though some criticized the climax. Vivek M V of called it a “moody thriller” led by Rangayana Raghu but noted a lack of emotional resonance in the final act. A Sharadhaa of described it as a “meditation on silence, mystery, and unspoken truths,” praising Raghu and Gurumurthy’s cinematography. Subha J Rao of found it satisfying despite slow pacing. Sridevi S of rated it 3.5/5, commending the cast’s restraint and 1990s nostalgia but finding the reveal predictable. Pratibha Joy of gave it 2.5/5, noting positives but a lack of grip. Praniti A S of argued style overshadowed substance. Swaroop Kodur of noted pacing issues. Avinash Ramachandran of praised its “complex simplicity.” Sanjay Ponnapa of called it a “slow and steady thriller.” Y Maheshwara Reddy of described it as a “gripping tale of murder.”</p>