‘Sarangadariya’ movie review: A relatable middle-class drama

"Sarangadariya," a small film starring Raja Raveendra in the lead role, has recently hit the big screens, garnering attention with its intriguing teaser, trailer, and songs. Directed by debutant Pandu under the Saijaa Creations banner, the film promises a heartfelt exploration of middle-class life and its inherent challenges. Now, as the film hits theatres, let’s see how it fares at box-office.

Story

The story revolves around Krishna Kumar (Raja Raveendra), a middle-class lecturer navigating life with his wife and children. He has two sons, Arjun (Moin) and Sai (Mohith), and a daughter, Anu (Yashaswini). Each family member grapples with their own unique problems. Unaware of their struggles, Krishna Kumar upholds his values and consistently imparts moral lessons to others. The narrative delves into how Krishna Kumar reacts upon discovering his daughter's peculiar issue, the problems faced by Arjun and Sai, and how he manages to navigate through these familial challenges.

Performances

Raja Raveendra, known for his negative roles, delivers a commendable performance in a completely different avatar. He shines as the middle-class father, endearing himself to the audience with his heartfelt portrayal. Moin and Mohith are well-cast as Arjun and Sai, respectively, bringing authenticity to their roles. Yashaswini impresses as Anu, while Madhulatha, Siva, Neela Priya, and others add value to the proceedings with their solid performances.

Technicalities

The film benefits from strong technical support. Ebenezer Paul's music effectively enhances the emotional tone of the film, while Siddhartha Swayambhu's cinematography captures the essence of middle-class life with finesse. The production values are commendable, reflecting the producers' commitment to bringing such a meaningful story to life.

Analysis

Director Pandu presents a highly relatable narrative in "Sarangadariya," capturing the essence of middle-class struggles. The film skillfully blends elements of religion, caste, financial status, and societal perceptions, addressing unfamiliar issues like sexual transformation and parents' emotional turmoil in a sensitive manner. The director adeptly establishes each character, making their stories and problems resonate with the audience. The second half, in particular, stands out with its emotional payoffs, deeply involving viewers in the narrative.

The film's strength lies in its ability to convey its message organically, avoiding preachy dialogues and instead fostering an emotional bond with the characters. The relatable content and effective storytelling make "Sarangadariya" a touching and engaging cinematic experience.

On awhole, "Sarangadariya" is a well-crafted film that resonates with middle-class audiences, offering a poignant exploration of everyday struggles and familial bonds. With strong performances and adept direction, it stands out as a heartfelt and relatable drama worth watching.