For the first time in the entertainment field a real life blind couple paired in a short film of 14 minutes ‘Sharat Matthu Sharadhi’. This is a short film without any short falls – truly an eye opener!
A special screening of the short film Sharath and Sharadhi—in which, for the first time ever, a real-life couple have acted as the lead pair on screen—was arranged for the media. The film has been written and directed by M. Jagadeesh, the director of “Aprilna Himabindu,” who has also co-produced the project. Ganesh B.M. has invested in the film under the banner of Talkguru Creations.
Speaking later on this occasion director Jagadeesh said, He met Ashwini and Veeresh couple in a marriage hall and at this point of time he cracked the idea of making a web series on the blind couple. This short film is a prelude to it he says. There was a dialogue in one scene about saving money on the electricity bill. Ashwini said, ‘Remove this line. We can live with darkness, but there shouldn’t be darkness in our minds. If there is darkness inside, it’s like a dark house on the street.’ Both of them see life positively. If we watch with our eyes closed, it feels like any other regular movie. The dubbing was completed in just three hours. Dattannaji usually doesn’t accept short films. But because the subject was strong, he acted without taking any remuneration and extended his support. We are also planning to translate the film into other languages, he said.
Actress Ashwini Angadi, who has received UN international awards and honors from the late Queen of Britain, said “This is a new kind of effort. We are living happily like everyone else. Parents of people with disabilities need not be afraid. Raise your children well,” she encouraged. Further speaking on her favorite actor Karnataka Rathna power star Puneeth Rajakumar Ashwini Angadi said she met Appu several times and he helped in setting up the computer lab to her institution.
Veeresh M., a music teacher from a government education department in Davanagere, who plays the male lead, shared his shooting experiences. He is a trained Hindustani singer and a bit song in this short film is rendered by him. Baby Vedika born to this blind couple is also blind and appears in a few scenes.
Veteran actor Dattanna said that Veeresh and Ashwini are happily living their journey among everyone else. “There’s no big difference between them and us. Society should not look at them differently. We are differently abled but not disabled,” he conveyed a meaningful message. “The director has shown remarkable creativity. A film like this deserves recognition. As the director explained, the couple performed beautifully in front of the camera.” He also shared some valuable advice for short filmmakers. Further Dattanna explained a six seconds short film that had only four photos in it is a classic idea and all film makers should make a stopover in short films he recommends.
“Marriage should be based on bonding, not on sympathy. There may be many reasons to be sad, but to be happy, no reason is needed. If you have the mindset to be happy, that’s enough.” Such heart-touching dialogues, along with the sweet presence of their little daughter Vedika, moved many in the audience to tears.
Music is by Satish Padmanabhan, cinematography by Vinay Hosagoudar, co-direction by Chetan Triven, and editing by Supreeth B.K.
The catch line of this ‘Sharat Matthu Sharathi’ we are differently able but not disabled is an interesting statement.