The much-awaited film “The Devil” starring Challenging Star Darshan is set for a grand statewide release on December 11.
Lavishly produced under the banner of Sri Jai Matha Combines, this highly anticipated film—written and directed by Prakash Veer—features Darshan in the lead role. During the pre-release press conference, the film’s team members shared their thoughts.
“Our film ‘The Devil’ is releasing on December 11. I had wished that Darshan would be here, that we could sit together and address the press. But it wasn’t possible. His absence pains me deeply. When Darshan is beside me, it gives me ‘Aane’ (elephant) strength. The story discussions for this film began in 2018. Then COVID struck. After ‘Kaatera’ was completed, we decided to go ahead with this project. So, two years ago, our film ‘The Devil’ began its journey. With the cooperation of all the actors and technicians, especially Darshan, the film has shaped up beautifully. It has five songs composed by Ajaneesh Lokanath. The songs and teaser released through Saregama have already won Kannadiga hearts. The trailer will be launched on December 5. Vijayalakshmi Darshan, Dinakar, and Darshan’s fans have stood by us with immense support. Supreeth and Gangadhar are helping with distribution. The media has supported us right from the beginning. As the film stands on the threshold of release, I request that the same encouragement continue,” said director Prakash Veer.
“For the last two years, our home has spoken of nothing but ‘The Devil.’ This film is like a child to us. If the film has turned out well, the credit goes entirely to the actors and technicians. I thank the entire team wholeheartedly,” said Executive Producer Tashvini Veer.
Lead debutant actress Rachana Rai said, “I am grateful to Jai Matha Combines, director Prakash Veer, and Darshan for giving me this opportunity. I wanted to be part of this film so much that I let go of two other projects.”
Actress Sharmila Mandre, known for her particularity about costumes, added, “I was supposed to work with Prakash many years ago; now the time has finally come. I had acted with Darshan in ‘Navagraha.’ After eighteen years, I have acted with him again in this film.”
Actor Achyuth Kumar shared, “Working under Prakash Veer’s direction is pure joy. This is the fourth film I have worked on with Darshan. The director’s composed mindset and the cool working atmosphere impressed me greatly, and the production house’s professional approach is immaculate. We are all eagerly celebrating the release of ‘The Devil’.”
“After ‘Jaggudada,’ I had not acted with Darshan. The director gave me an opportunity in this film. Though my role is small, I believe it will stay in everyone’s hearts,” said actor Shobh Raj.
Actor Huli Karthik, visibly emotional, said, “This is the first time I have acted with Darshan. But at the time of release, I am not able to sit with him and watch the film.”
“The first shows will begin as early as 6:30 AM in various theatres across Karnataka,” informed Supreeth, who is assisting with the film’s distribution.
Sonia, Yuvaraj, editor Harish Komme, lyricists Pramod Maravante and Aniruddha Shastri, art director Mohan B. Kerre, Saregama Music’s Anand, Abhay Satish Gowda, Tilak Shankar, and others involved in the project also expressed their views. Sudhakar S. Raj is the cinematographer of the film.
Dialogue writer Kantaraj remarked, “Hettavarige Heggana Muddu, but we have delivered an elephant—and with pride.” This, he said, sums up the project in its entirety.