Director Lucky Shankar's upcoming film Oorabba, inspired by real-life incidents surrounding the renowned Sri Ujjini Chowdeshwari Devi Jatre in Magadi taluk, recently unveiled its trailer in the presence of Kunigal MLA Dr HD Ranganath and members of the film fraternity.
What sets Oorabba apart is its attempt to capture the festival in its most authentic form. The makers filmed the actual Ujjini Chowdeshwari Jatre live using eight high-resolution cameras, documenting the scale, energy and traditions of the annual event as they unfolded. The footage was captured by a team of experienced technicians, including MD Shridhar, H Vasu and AV Krishnakumar, making it one of the most ambitious festival-based shoots undertaken in Kannada cinema.
Speaking about the film, director Lucky Shankar said the project was born out of a desire to preserve and present the history, culture and emotional significance of the festival. He added that the story draws from real incidents and people associated with the jatre, blending them into a cinematic narrative rooted in local traditions.
Actress Tanisha Kuppanda, who plays one of the lead roles, said the entire team immersed themselves in the environment of Ujjini while filming. She noted that the cast spent considerable time understanding the lives and experiences of the people connected to the festival, helping them portray their characters with authenticity.
Produced under the Ayush Enterprises banner by actor-producer Naresh Gowda, who also plays a pivotal role in the film, Oorabba explores several unique customs associated with the Chowdeshwari Devi celebrations. The film also sheds light on community practices and rituals that have been followed for generations.
The ensemble cast includes Naresh Gowda, Tanisha Kuppanda, Siddu Moolimani, Payal Chengappa, Doddanna, Mimicry Gopi, Biradar, Mithra, Dr Nanjappa, Aravind Rao and Nidasale Puttaswamy, among others. Music for the film is composed by Akshay S. Rishab, with cinematography by Krishnakumar, editing by R D Ravi and art direction by Ganesh.