Mangaluru: The much-awaited Tulu film Gajanan Cricketers (Jantottu Since 1983) is all set for a grand theatrical release across coastal Karnataka on May 22, generating significant excitement among Tulu cinema audiences and movie lovers.
Produced under the banner of Prajwal Films by Prajwal Shetty and directed by Keerthan Bhandary, the movie has already created a strong buzz through its teaser, songs and promotional campaigns on social media.
The film is being described as one of the biggest-budget Tulu movies centred on cricket and the lives of players, combining sports, comedy, romance, emotions and a socially relevant message.
Promotions receive positive response
The makers recently confirmed the official release date and intensified promotional activities ahead of the theatrical launch. Teasers and songs released online have reportedly received an encouraging response from audiences, particularly among youth and cricket enthusiasts in the coastal region.
The film’s cricket-based storyline and local flavour have generated curiosity among viewers, with many expecting the movie to offer a fresh and entertaining experience for Tulu cinema fans.
Industry observers believe the film could attract a wider audience due to its combination of sports drama, humour and emotional storytelling rooted in coastal Karnataka culture.
Directorial debut for Keerthan Bhandary
The film marks the directorial debut of Keerthan Bhandary, who has also written the story and screenplay for the project.
According to the makers, the story revolves around cricket and the emotional journeys of players, while also touching upon social themes relevant to the region. The title “Jantottu Since 1983” has further added to audience curiosity regarding the film’s setting and narrative backdrop.
Large portions of the movie were shot in and around Mangaluru, showcasing familiar locations and the cultural atmosphere of coastal Karnataka.
Producer Prajwal Shetty also plays the lead role in the film, adding to the local connect and promotional appeal of the project.
Strong cast from Tulu cinema industry
The movie features several well-known faces from the Tulu entertainment industry in important roles.
The cast includes Vineeth Kumar, Naveen D Padil, Aravind Bolar, Bhojaraj Vamanjoor, Deepak Rai Panaje, Prakash Tuminadu, Umesh Mijar, Samatha Amin, Anvitha Sagar, Walter Nandalike, Prasanna Shetty Bailoor and Sandeep Shetty Manibettu among others.
The presence of several established artistes has increased expectations surrounding the film’s entertainment value and commercial prospects.
Technical team adds strength to project
The cinematography for the film has been handled by Vinuth K Suvarna, while editing responsibilities were managed by Sujay Shivaram and Kaushik Bhandary.
Music for the movie has been composed by Srujan Kumar Tonse, whose songs from the film have already gained traction online.
The makers have indicated that significant effort has gone into the production quality, visuals and music, with the aim of presenting a technically polished film to audiences.
Expectations high for Tulu cinema
With growing excitement surrounding the release, “Gajanan Cricketers” is expected to bring fresh momentum to the Tulu film industry, which has witnessed increasing audience support in recent years.
Film enthusiasts from Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts are eagerly awaiting the release, especially due to the movie’s cricket-based theme and strong local cultural connection.
Industry followers believe the success of large-scale projects like “Gajanan Cricketers” could encourage more ambitious productions in Tulu cinema and help expand the reach of regional films beyond coastal Karnataka.