A scene involving the killing of a chicken has contributed to the delay in the release of Mrityudevate, even as the makers continue promotions with the launch of the film’s new song, 'Nammava Madeva'.
Speaking at the song release event, co-director Devu said the censor board had asked the team to obtain mandatory clearance from the animal welfare board for the sequence before certification could move ahead. “Because of this technical issue, the film’s release has been delayed,” he said, adding that Munindra of MP Films will distribute the movie across Karnataka.
Directed and headlined by Naveen Mahadev, Mrityudevate is a women-centric film that looks at how women fall into the traps laid by fraudsters, the struggle to escape such situations, and the fight against those who exploit them. The story revolves around three women whose lives are shaken by deception and betrayal.
Produced by Saraswati Naveen Mahadev under the Varshitha Productions banner, the film has Naveen taking charge of the story, screenplay, dialogues, lyrics and direction, besides acting in a major role. As part of promotions, the team released 'Nammava Madeva', starring Himashree and Naveen Mahadev, with lyrics written by the director.
Naveen said the film’s release was postponed due to minor censor-related issues and noted that the first song had received appreciation for the way it portrayed women and womanhood. “We had not planned to use this second song initially, but Himashree insisted. I spent nearly 30 days working on the trailer because presentation is important,” he said.
Sarika Rao plays Aarathi, a Swiggy delivery girl with different shades to her character. She described the film as one that goes beyond entertainment and speaks about what happens when a woman’s patience is pushed too far. Himashree plays Soumya, an innocent girl from Malnad, and said the film carries a message about not trusting strangers too quickly.
The cast also includes Annayya fame Maheen, Pavan Shetty, Surya and veteran actor Vinaya Prasad. The film has cinematography by Aniruddh and music by Shivaprasad.
