TRUTH MAY HURT, BUT LIES AND MISTRUST DESTROY LOVE

“At the gate where suspicion enters, love goes out”, is a pithy saying. Trust surely is the foundation on which the superstructure of all relationships exist.

“ಅಮೃತ ಘಳಿಗೆ” ('Amrutha Ghalige', which means: 'Ambrosial Moment') is a classic 1984 Kannada film, a romantic drama based on the novel Avadhana, by Dodderi Venkatagiri Rao. The critically-acclaimed movie won a plethora of awards; it pulled audiences to cinema theatres in droves too.

This plot deals with the sensitive issues of of premarital sex and teenage pregnancy– both taboo in Indian society. It portrays the trauma of girls and the stigma associated with teen pregnancy, with dramatic content added in good measure.

The female protagonist, Renu (Padma Vasanthi), a fresher in college, hails from a family of limited means. Manu (Ramakrishna), an affluent classmate, shows romantic interest in Renu. He courts her persistently and the two begin to love each other; they even consummate their relationship sexually.

Madhu then leaves town to pursue further studies. In the meantime, Renu becomes pregnant. But then, Madhu is suspicious of Renu's fidelity and casts aspersions on her. He denies being the father of the child in Renu's womb. In short, Madhu dumps Renu.

How does devastated Renu handle the taint? Does she get ostracised in the orthodox, small-town society around her?

Director Puttanna Kanagal's sense of drama is impeccable. He weaves contemporary social issues masterfully into the narrative of his flicks...bold, women-oriented themes are often the chief motif. The story-telling too is from the female lead's perspective– a trademark of his landmark films. This one is no exception.

Members of the cast have put up commendable renditions. Padma Vasanthi is the standout though.

Music Director, Vijaya Bhaskar has composed some ethereal tracks to soulful lyrics penned by Vijaya Narasimha– in particular, 'Hindustanavu Endu', an inspirational, aspirational track, which names role models for our youth to look up to. The editing and camerawork in the film are decent.

The movie is perhaps a reminder to all of us that the 'proof of love lies in mutual trust and respect'

I rate this romantic drama: 8.5 on 10!

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