The expectations surrounding Devi Mahatme were already high, thanks to the combination of veteran actor Rangayana Raghu and director Nagaraj Somayaji, who made an impression with his debut feature Maryade Prashne. The phenomenal success of Premada Oorali, in which Raghu is one of the most prominent faces, has further heightened interest in the upcoming film.
Directed by Nagaraj Somayaji, Devi Mahatme is set in and around Kundapura and explores the lives of coastal Karnataka’s fishing community. The narrative examines the tensions between tradition and modernisation, weaving together human relationships, humour and suspense.
Despite its title, the film is neither a conventional devotional film nor a female-centric drama. It draws inspiration from the celebrated Yakshagana prasanga of the same name, a traditional performance form deeply associated with coastal Karnataka.
Rangayana Raghu plays Shankranna, a character whose relationships and outlook shape the narrative. The role offers the versatile actor an opportunity to explore a more restrained, emotionally layered performance.
The ensemble cast includes Veena Sundar, Arvind Kuplikar, Pallavi Manjunath, Prathima Nayak, Nagendra Shah, Prashanth Hiremath and Raghu Pandeshwar. Produced by Vidhya Gandhirajan under the UVG Studios banner, the film has cinematography by S K Rao and music by Likith Prasad K Shetty. Hombale Music has acquired its audio rights.
With Premada Oorali adding fresh momentum to Rangayana Raghu’s screen presence, Devi Mahatme now has an additional reason to draw audience interest. Its distinctive coastal setting and unconventional narrative could further set it apart from mainstream Kannada releases.
The film is scheduled for a theatrical release on December 4.