The muhurat of Sampige, directed by debutant Giri Gowda, was held recently. The film, produced under the Kalabhairaveshwara Productions banner, is scheduled to begin shooting in August.

Actor Saniya Iyer and her mother Deepa Iyer gave the ceremonial clap for the first shot. Former Bigg Boss Kannada contestant Ishani, social worker Anjanappa, members of the film fraternity, friends, and Darshan fans attended the event and wished the team.

Speaking at the launch, Giri Gowda said Sampige is a murder mystery centred on crimes against women while carrying a social message. Having previously directed video album songs, the filmmaker said this is his first feature film after his earlier projects, Maddur Vade and Mahakali, did not take off.

The film will be shot over 20 days at locations including Melukote, Kannur and nearby places. Gowda said the film has one song and will introduce several newcomers, while the heroine will be revealed in the coming days.

Producer Rudra Kumar, who comes from the bread manufacturing business, said producing a film had been his dream for the past 10 years. He said he chose to back Sampige after listening to the story and is producing it for Giri Gowda, whom he described as being like a brother.

Lead actor Vardhan, a native of Hassan, said he has spent the past eight years doing small roles in films and working in the direction department. He said his character is unlike anything he has done before and that the team has been rehearsing extensively ahead of filming.

Actors Praveen Davanagere and Darshan also play key roles in the film.

The cinematography for Sampige is by Keerthan Poojari. The team plans to complete principal photography in a single schedule beginning next month.