Chomana Dudi – 1975

This is a beautiful film, especially because I wanted to know more about Panjurli worship and how it was back then. The film is Chomana Dudi (1975), and it portrays this world so authentically. The oppression of Dalits during that time is powerfully depicted, with layered perspectives that make you truly reflect on the reality of that era.

The screenplay is outstanding. They have kept it raw and authentic. Being from Mangalore myself, I could instantly connect with it on a deeper level. The narration, acting, and overall execution are simply beautiful. It is a Kannada film, and the use of sound effects, probably for the first time in the Kannada film industry, was done to its fullest impact. Though it is in black and white, the film is masterfully constructed and visually compelling.

After Pather Panchali, this film stands out as one of the very best without a doubt.

It is available for free on YouTube, and honestly, watching Chomana Dudi there is far more worthwhile than sitting through something like Param Sundari in a theatre (yes, I made that mistake).