Shivarajkumar in Bhajrangi 2
Shivarajkumar in Bhajrangi 2

Bhajrangi 2 Movie Review: It’s Shivanna’s show all the way in this fantasy drama

In the end, Bhajarangi 2 turns out to be a visual spectacle with fits and spurts of adrenaline rushes.
Rating:(3 / 5)

Bhajrangi 2, a fantasy drama with an undercurrent spiritual message, is a challenging undertaking. However, director Harsha, with the help of competent actors, has tried his best to pull off this rarely-attempted genre in Kannada.

Cast: Shivarajkumar, Shruti, Bhavana, Saurav Lokesh, Cheluvaraj, Prasanna Bhageena, and Girish

Director: A Harsha


The film starts with Guruji narrating the story of Anji (Shivarajkumar), his sister Alamelamma (Shruti), and Chinminki (Bhavana), to a group of villagers. Along with his listeners, the audience are also transported to this fantasy village named Harohalli. Alamelamma wants his brother to settle down in life, and as she gets close to achieving it, the entire village comes under an attack by a demon named Araka (Cheluvaraj). Anji has to now fight the formidable force against all odds.

Meanwhile, in a flashback episode, set in a different timeline, appears the mighty Bhajarangi. He is the local Robinhood-like figure, who believes that the ancient traditional practice of Ayurveda can cure deadly diseases. The connection between Bhajarangi’s and Anji, and how the former helps the latter in beating the demon forms the crux of this action entertainer.

A social message with a hint of spirituality has been director Harsha’s modus operandi. He takes a similar route with Bhajarangi 2, but this time, he has set his formula in a larger-than-life setup and characters. Though it works predominantly, too many characters and a lengthy narrative do strain the viewer.

The set and costume designs are the highlights of the film. A lot of deliberation has gone into elaborate set works. The scenes are dominated by greenery, which signifies nature and the environment. The art director and the costume designers have drawn a lot of references from various films - especially from the series Viking looks. All said and done, Bhajarangi 2 is Shivarajkumar’s show all the way.

The Century star has put a lot into differentiating the dual roles of the father and the son. It was not just about the looks, but he brings about the difference with the two different kinds of performances as well. Shruthi has a unique role here, and she justifies it in every frame. On the other hand, Bhavana makes a pleasing appearance in the film. Saurav Lokesh, Cheluvaraj, Prasanna Bhageena, and Girish also make a mark with their respective roles.

As far as the work of the technical crew goes, Harsha’s vision is well backed by cinematographer J Swamy, which is further complemented by Arjun Janya’s background score and tracks.

In the end, Bhajarangi 2 turns out to be a visual spectacle with fits and spurts of adrenaline rushes. It will be enjoyed by all kinds of audiences, but would still be a special treat for Shivarajkumar’s fans.

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