In what marks a significant international milestone for Kannada cinema, filmmaker Siddu Poornachandra’s upcoming directorial, Puttannana Katthe, has been officially selected at the prestigious Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) in Australia.
Known for helming grounded, socially resonant narratives like Daari Yavudayya Vaikunthakke, Brahmakamala, and Taarini, Siddu takes on a historically unique premise with this outing. Puttannana Katthe holds the rare distinction of being the first feature in the history of Kannada cinema to place a donkey at the centre of its narrative canvas.
Set against the bustling lanes of Bengaluru, the film chronicles the trials of rural migrants who eke out a living by hawking fresh donkey milk door-to-door. At its emotional core is Puttanna, essayed by Bheemesh, whose journey traces the economic precarity, quiet resilience, and unique bonds forged on the fringes of an urban metropolis. Anish Aryan, Leo Sharma, and Vibha Vandan feature in key roles alongside Bheemesh.
The selection at Melbourne arrives amid a notable international run for Kannada cinema, sharing space with milestones such as Rishab Shetty being conferred the festival’s prestigious 'Leadership in Cinema' honour.
Bankrolled by Tanmay S Gowda under the Poornachandra Films banner, Puttannana Katthe has its story, screenplay, and dialogues penned by director Siddu himself.
The ensemble cast features NT Ramaswamy, Kavita Kambar, Kalarathi Mahadev, Rohini, Rashmi Mysore, Lucky Shankar, Siddu Mandya, and Babu, with Rangegowda, the real-life caretaker of the donkey, also playing a role. On the technical front, the film features cinematography by Raju Hemmigepura, music by Ananth Aryan, editing by Deepu, and sync sound handled by Krishnamurthy.
Following its festival run in Melbourne, the makers are planning to release Puttannana Katthe in theatres soon.