Ambarisha Review

One of the popular mythological plays is ‘Bhaktha Ambarisha’ that could not come up on silver screen from Dr Rajakumar. In the social format of this ‘Ambarisha’ could be regarded as ‘Bhaktha Ambarisha’ – that is because Darshan is ‘Bhaktha’ of Dr Ambarisha in the film.

Dr Ambarish playing the role of ‘Kempe Gowda’ builder of Bengaluru’ hands over the mantle of managing Bengaluru by giving the powerful sword (that is of Sri Krishnadevaraya Empire). That makes Darshan ‘Bhaktha Ambarisha’. It is not history repeat but mystery on silver screen!

Coming to this wafer thin story in ‘Ambarisha’ it is more of action and image building exercise via dialogues from director Mahesh Sukhadhare.

Ambi (Darshan) is a coolie in construction department. He wants to construct everything in right way. He faces stiff challenge from Smitha (Priyamani) and ‘RDX’ (Kelli Dorjee) supported by a minister of Karnataka. Ambi has a rare feeling when he comes before the statue of Nada Prabhu ‘Kempe Gowda’ – played by Dr Ambarish sitting Housing Minister of Karnataka state.

The point stressed to stop land acquisition (grabbing) is also the topic of Dr Ambarish Housing ministry department in real life. The fact is that nothing can be changed in real life with Bengaluru growing so fast and so big. Considering this issue, the film should have come three decades ago. Had Ambarish as rebel star (during Antha Kannada film time) taken up when he was at the helm it was more appropriate. However the purpose of the film is defeated in present social context.

Ordinary cowboy in Mantralaya serving the temple of Sri Raghavendra Swamy, Ambi comes to Bengaluru in the flashback. In Bengaluru 44000 acres of land going to mafia and lakes converted as lands – a real estate blunder. Ambi works as construction worker. When the land sharks are up against him the support comes like a magic. The sword of Kempe Gowda statue comes to Ambi rescue. He fights for the people. He is buried in the climax but comes out miraculously and put an end to all tormentors. The Godly power and Kempe Gowda shower of strength club together for Ambi in putting an end.

As an action hero Darshan is fine again. The dialogue in this film by Chitan has given him more applaud. In dozen places the whistle and clap comes for Darshan.

Dr Ambarish as Kempe Gowda looks tired. Priyamani steals the show from her role. Rachita Ram is lady love of Darshan is pretty, Sharat Lohitashva, Thimme Gowda, Sringeri Ramanna, Sadhu Kokila, Bullet Prakash and Thulasi given superb support. Kelli Dorjee is ineffective.

Stunts from Ravi Verma and editing from KM Prakash lift the film. Chintan in dialogue and screenplay gives a well measured work.

V Harikrishna four songs are foot tapping. A song for Dr Ambarish, three songs for Darshan, Priyamani, Rachita Ram add to commercial value.

Sathya in camera work adds to the full meal a desert served. His angles are so clear and appealing.

It is Kannada Rajyotsava boon from Darshan for his fans.

Score 7/10