In a world where filmmakers often seek to escape reality, Tharun Kishore Sudhir has chosen a different path, one that brings the complexities of real life to the big screen. Whether as a director or producer, he has consistently made bold choices that reflect his unique approach to storytelling—one rooted in authenticity, where the mundane and extraordinary collide to create films that feel grounded in truth. His latest production venture, Elumale, is no exception.
Known for his ability to blend fact with fiction, Tharun has always sought inspiration from real-life events and stories that not only captivate audiences but also challenge their perspectives. He doesn’t rely on fleeting trends or speculative imagination. Instead, his creative process is deeply entwined with research, diving into archives, forgotten reports, and old newspapers to bring untold stories to life on screen. For him, this is more than a job; it’s a way to connect with the world on a fundamental level.
“Cinema reflects our lives. It needs to be rooted in reality,” says Tharun, echoing his belief that the most powerful stories are those that mirror the world we live in. This philosophy is central to his body of work, from Kaatera, directed by him, to Guru Sishyaru, directed by Jadeshaa K Hampi and produced by him, where real-life moments became the springboard for gripping cinematic narratives. His newest film, Elumale, due for release on September 5, continues that journey.
Directed by Punit Rangaswamy and starring a diverse cast including Raanna, Priyanka Achar, Jagapathi Babu, and Kishore, Elumale is inspired by a real incident from 2004 that stirred national debate; a cross-border romance between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The event captured widespread attention and ignited conversations about love, politics, and identity. For Tharun, the producer and creative head, this was fertile ground for storytelling.
“The idea to base the love thriller on this real event came from Punit,” Tharun shares. “Once we had the storyline, we knew it was essential to dive deep into research. This wasn’t about making a documentary; it was about capturing the essence of what happened while crafting a cinematic experience.” While television and social media weren’t as powerful in the early 2000s, Tharun and team was able to rely on newspapers’ extensive archives to uncover the nuances of the story.
His commitment to historical authenticity is non-negotiable. As both producer and creative head at his production banner, Tharun Sudhir Kreatiivez, he works closely with his team, ensuring every detail adds to the realism of the film. “I’m truly excited about this project and the impact it can have,” he says, a palpable energy in his voice.
Despite being inspired by real events, Elumale walks a fine line between fact and fiction. “The dates and backdrop are authentic, but we’ve layered in fictional elements to enhance the narrative,” Tharun explains. The film unfolds across several parallel tracks, all tied to the symbolic number seven, a culturally significant motif in the region. Shot around Male Mahadeshwara, the story intertwines multiple subplots, all converging around the themes of love, conflict, and destiny. “Metaphorically, Elumale is about these intersecting tracks of human connection,” Tharun explains, his words carrying the weight of the film’s larger themes.
What truly sets Elumale apart is its socio-political backdrop. Set in the early 2000s, the film is situated during a volatile period marked by the Cauvery river dispute, the former Tamil Nadu CM Jayalalithaa’s political ascendancy, and the shadow of the notorious bandit Veerappan. “That era had its own atmosphere of tension,” Tharun notes. “Placing a love thriller within that context makes the story even more layered. Audiences will instantly recall the mood of those times.”
The film’s authenticity is further heightened by its cinematography and music. Advaitha Gurumurthy’s raw visuals capture the gritty essence of the narrative, while D Imman’s music, infused with folk influences, adds an emotional depth that transcends language barriers. The music doesn’t just support the story; it becomes an emotional bridge connecting audiences across regions.
As a producer, Tharun’s role is to ensure the film’s creative vision is realised, but he is careful to respect the director’s autonomy. “The final decision rests with the director,” he says. “My job is to share my experience, offer guidance when needed, and ease the pressures on the team. If I make a suggestion, it’s always for the betterment of the cinema.”
When asked why he chose not to direct Elumale himself, Tharun is candid. “If I had taken it on, the scale of the film would have changed drastically,” he admits. “My involvement as a director would have meant higher costs and mounting pressures. Instead, I wanted to support the project as a producer. Money has never been the driving force for me. Passion is.”
For Tharun udhir, Elumale serves as a reminder that stories anchored in truth have the power to resonate across generations. “When cinema mirrors life, it speaks to everyone, and that’s what makes it timeless,” he concludes.
