Strong performances from Kannada cinema’s Shetty trio shine in this gripping crime drama.
Rishab, Raj, and Rakshit Shetty, the prominent figures of Kannada cinema, unite for the crime drama Garuda Gamana Vrishabha Vahana. This film showcases their individual talents and collaborative spirit, reflecting the stronghold they have established in the industry. Each has made significant contributions to recent cinema, with Rishab Shetty’s directorial and acting success in Kantara: Chapter 1 and Raj B Shetty’s production role in the film Su From So. Rakshit Shetty’s lead role in Sapta Saagaradaache Ello has also garnered attention, solidifying their status as influential creators.
In Garuda Gamana Vrishabha Vahana, which is available on ZEE5, the Shetty brothers join forces, with Rakshit Shetty serving as co-producer and Raj B Shetty taking on the directorial role. The film delves into themes of brotherhood, loyalty, and betrayal through a narrative that intertwines the lives of its characters. The story begins with a striking scene involving a fish, which sets the tone for the unfolding drama. Here, Hari and his mother discover an injured boy, later named Shiva, who remains in a catatonic state for years, only to later communicate through violent outbursts.
As the characters mature, Hari, played by Rishab Shetty, and Shiva, portrayed by Raj B Shetty, form a complex, symbiotic relationship. Their dynamic evolves as Hari exploits Shiva’s mental state to establish a criminal empire aimed at dominating Mangalore. The film paints a vivid picture of their contrasting personalities: Hari is a devout thug who adheres to ritualistic cleansing after his violent acts, while Shiva is depicted as a vagrant, mingling with lesser gang members. This power dynamic becomes increasingly strained due to Hari’s ambitions and the interference of Police officer Bhramaiyya, who shares a similar tumultuous journey of his own.
Raj B Shetty’s direction elevates the formulaic plot of Garuda Gamana Vrishabha Vahana, transforming it into a captivating experience with well-defined characters and an atmosphere of suspense. The film runs for 151 minutes and aligns with the slow-paced, realistic gangster genre, reminiscent of works like Pithamagan and Gangs of Wasseypur. A notable absence of significant female characters adds an interesting dimension, focusing primarily on the male-driven narrative. Rishab Shetty’s portrayal of Hari is notably different from his previous roles, showcasing a character who relies more on intellect than physical strength. In contrast, Raj B Shetty’s performance as the psychotic Shiva stands in stark contrast to his earlier comedic roles.
Familiar faces from previous films like Kantara and Su From So appear throughout Garuda Gamana Vrishabha Vahana, highlighting the interconnectedness of the Shetty trio’s cinematic ventures. Their collaborative efforts exemplify the adage that it takes a village to create a film, as they navigate their individual careers while supporting one another. This film serves as a testament to their collective prowess and the vibrant storytelling present in Kannada cinema.
