Ravi Basrur is not just the mastermind behind the thunderous scores of KGF films and Salaar. He’s a dreamer, a storyteller, and now, a director— bringing to life a passion project that’s been close to his heart for over a decade: Veera Chandrahasa.
“I credit my journey as a composer to Yakshagana,” begins Ravi with honesty. “Anyone who has grown up in Karavali knows that the rhythm of Yakshagana stays with you even in your sleep.” This ancient coastal art form isn’t just inspiration—it’s the very foundation of who he is. "Veera Chandrahasa is my way of giving it back to the world," says Ravi Basrur ahead of the film's release on April 18.
While Gargar Mandala, Bilindar, Kataka and Girmit were his initial directorial efforts, Veera Chandrahasa is special for the filmmaker who has crafted this film on a grand scale. “This story stayed in my heart for 12 years. But I knew I had to wait—for the experience, for the right team, and honestly, for the money to do it justice,” he says. “Whatever I earned, I’ve poured into this film. This is my offering to the art of Yakshagana.”
The film traces the journey of a bhikshuka (a beggar) who rises to become a king—a tale of transformation, patience, and perseverance that mirrors Ravi’s own life in parts, he admits. “It isn’t just history or myth. It’s about rising above circumstances. That’s why the story spoke to me,” he shares.
Set in the mythical Kuntala kingdom, Veera Chandrahasa blends the essence of Yakshagana with historical drama and the narrative traditions of Harikatha. “We tried out a few stories, but only this one brought that right vibe. It had rhythm, emotion, and visual power.”
Ravi, who has also composed the music, speaks passionately about the sounds of the film. “We’ve used 32 ragas—from Mohana to Vasanthi—because they capture emotion in a way words can’t. It’s not just music; it’s a spiritual experience.”
But music isn’t the only element carrying the soul of Yakshagana. Veera Chandrahasa brings together over 450 Yakshagana performers, costume designers, and technicians—many of whom perform regularly in temple festivals. “Some of these artists are booked until 2045. That’s how dedicated and immersed they are in the art form.”
Costume design is another pillar of authenticity. “Each thread in a Yakshagana costume has meaning—it’s not just visual, it’s spiritual. Yakshagana as art form live in the tradition and are passed down through practice.”
Headlining the film is Shithil Shetty, while the legendary Shivarajkumar makes a powerful special appearance as Nadaprabhu Shiva Puttaswamy. The film also features Chandan Shetty, Garuda Ram, and Puneet Rudranag in key roles.
“The story of Chandrahasa isn’t widely known—even though he’s believed to have lived before the Mahabharata,” says Ravi. “With Kantara, people saw one facet of our coastal culture. When Veera Chandrahasa releases, they’ll witness the grandeur and spirit of Yakshagana in its fullest form.”
He further adds, “Yakshagana has a history that dates back over 2,000 years. It deserves to be studied, preserved, and presented to the world — not just as an art form, but as a way of life. This film is a humble attempt at showcasing that."
Pointing out how Kantara became an eye-opener in showing the diverse cultural practices, Ravi Basrur says, "I was one among those who whistled during its powerful climax. That memory stayed with me. Rooted stories deserve to be told—we don’t need polished or packaged narratives to make an impact."
Produced by Omkar Movies and Ravi Basrur Movies, in association with NS Rajkumar, Geetha Ravi Basrur, Dinakar (Viji Group), Anup Gowda, and Anil, the film is backed for Karnataka release by Hombale Films.