FAITH FUELS THE LIVES OF THE WEAK

Edmund Burke, the Irish statesman and philosopher declared: “Superstition is the religion of feeble minds.” Often though, the superstition of “feeble minds” keeps the “frail lives” in the community going!

"ಕನಸೆಂಬೋ ಕುದುರೆಯನೇರಿ" ('Kanasembo Kudureyaneri', which means: 'Riding a Horse Named Dream') is a 2010 Kannada film, which grabbed a plethora of awards. Based on a story in 'Savari', an anthology written by Amaresh Nugadoni, the film depicts brilliantly how the superstition of some is yoked with sustenance of others in society.

Siddhas are nomadic tribals whose visit is considered auspicious. The superstition-laced belief is that souls of those who die when a Siddha arrives at the village reach heaven. Irya (Vaijanath Biradar), a grave-digger, believes that the appearance of a Siddha in his dream presages death in the village. Irya's faith backfires though when his prognostication about the impending death of an ailing man is refuted...falsely for material gain.

The failed premonition disturbs, nay, devastates Irya, and his wife, Rudri (Umashree). Both are unable to comprehend why Siddhas, their guardians, deserted them. In a tailspin, their 'dream-driven, dream-dependent' lives turn into a nightmarish mess.

So, is there any respite for the couple? Do their lives get back on track?

Girish Kasaravalli's direction is phenomenally prodigious. He takes the theme of superstition and weaves tradition, occupation and exploitation into it. The intent is to show the flip side of superstition– slaying tradition amounts to playing with the lives dependant on it, for one man's food is the other's poison, or rather, faith.

The director is masterful in matching the marginal versus the mainstream in the movie. His dramatisation of the plot with a non-linear, back-'n-forth narrative is sure to earn brownie points with critics; but, the presentation is unnecessarily taxing on less discerning viewers. After all, the addition of creative quotient should not deduct the creative impact of cinema. I mean, enigmatic presentation of content does not necessarily lead to the most engaging experience.

Biradar, as Irya, is OUTSTANDING in his rendition; Umashree is EXCELLENT in her portrayal of Rudri. The supporting cast has done well too. HM Ramachandra Halkere's cinematography is pleasing on the eye; V Manohar's music is soothing to the ear.

The film reminds one of Swami Vivekananda's poignant words: “Superstition is our great enemy. But, bigotry is worse.” Perhaps, being judgmental about superstition is worst!

The film is a great watch.

My rating is: 8.0 on 10!