The film Paathashaala, which revolves around sensitive themes such as deforestation, environmental conservation, and childhood, is set to release on November 14, coinciding with Children’s Day. A press conference was recently held to share details about the film, where the team spoke about its making and message.
Director Heddur Manjunath Shetty said that despite its title, Paathashaala is not just a children’s film. “Education today is not like it was in the 1980s. There is a wide gap between teachers and students. Along with this, the film also deals with a delicate issue that my wife’s uncle once shared — encroachment and clearance of forest land. The film was shot over 20 days in Thirthahalli, Shivamogga district, where even the producers joined us. The tagline of the film is ‘Odu Illa Odogu’ (Run if you don’t study). The reason behind it can be understood only by watching the film. Paathashaala will release across Karnataka on November 14,” he said.
Senior actor Kiran Nayak, who plays the character Sanjeevanna, said, “Deforestation is not caused by the tribal people but by the forest department itself. Despite knowing this truth, the blame is often wrongly placed on the tribal communities.”
Actor Akshay, who plays the character Naveen, said, “My character runs a cycle shop. The shooting experience was unforgettable.”
Veteran actor Sudhakar Bannanje, who plays a headmaster, shared, “My role has turned out well. The film beautifully portrays the bond teachers had with their villages and the care they had for children in the 1980s. This is not an educational Paathashaala, but a school of life.”
Child artists Digant, Mithun, Ayush, Shreyan, Ahana, and Gouthami are part of the cast. Producers Pradeep Guddemane, Arun Mallesara, Bhaskar Kammaradi, Ravi Shetty, and choreographers Arun and Ambika were also present at the event and shared insights about the film.