Almost a year after Kannada actor Santosh Balraj's sudden passing left the industry in shock, audiences are set to see him on screen one final time. Ratnagarbha, the last film completed by the Ganapa and Kariya 2 actor, is nearing release, with the makers choosing August 5, his first death anniversary, to unveil the film's first-look and motion posters.
Santosh, son of producer Anekal Balraj, passed away unexpectedly in August last year, leaving behind a career many believed was entering a promising phase. His final project has since taken on a deeper significance, standing as the actor's last screen appearance.
Directed by Ashok Kadaba and produced by Mahanthesh VK under the Sri Matha Creations banner, Ratnagarbha reportedly features Santosh in a role that is a departure from his previous films. Following his demise, the team completed the remaining patchwork shoot, visual effects and post-production work to ensure the film was finished as originally envisioned. The project is now in the final stages of post-production and is expected to head to theatres soon.
The first-look poster and motion poster will be unveiled at 7 pm on August 5 during a special event near Ragigudda Metro Station in Bengaluru. The gathering will also serve as a tribute to Santosh, bringing together the cast, crew, family members and well-wishers to remember the actor before introducing his final film to audiences.
Ratnagarbha stars Ranjani Raghavan opposite Santosh Balraj, with Suman, Vinaya Prasad, Sayaji Shinde, Avinash, Pavithra Lokesh, Mukhyamantri Chandru and MS Umesh in pivotal roles.
The screenplay is written by Janardhan P Jani, who also serves as the film's creative director and VFX supervisor. Ravi Basrur has composed the songs, while Gopal Venkatesh and AT Ravish have scored the background music. Cinematography is by Cinitech Soori, with editing by Suresh Aras and Kumar H.
For those who followed Santosh Balraj's career, Ratnagarbha is more than a new release. It preserves the final performance of an actor whose journey ended far too soon, making the film both a farewell and a lasting tribute to his work.
