Almost five decades after it first lit up cinema screens, the 1973 Kannada classic Gandhada Gudi returns to theatres on Thursday, April 24, on the occasion of the 96th birth anniversary of the late legendary actor Rajkumar. Gandhada Gudi (abode of Sandalwood trees), is a gripping, action-packed drama featuring Rajkumar as Kumar, a forest officer who takes on illegal poachers to protect the forests. Filmed in the lush jungles of Nagarahole and Bandipur, the movie features an iconic scene where an elephant gently lifts Rajkumar with its trunk.
More than just a commercial success, the film left a lasting impression because of the powerful performances of the actors, poignant themes and stellar music. Upon its original release, it ran for an impressive 25 weeks in theatres. Directed by Vijay and produced by MP Shankar, it also marked the first-ever onscreen collaboration between Kannada cinema titans Rajkumar and Vishnuvardhan.
The film carved a massive cultural footprint in the Kannada industry and was later remade in Hindi. Following the massive success of the film, its sequel Gandhada Gudi 2 was released in 1994.
Some fans of the actor and the film recall how the film made them culturally aware of their native environment and made them realise how important conservation of trees is. However, some of them expressed disappointment because it was not released in screens across Karnataka. Fans from all over Karnataka share their excitement on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook wishing him on his birthday and marking the re-release of this legendary film.