Lyricist Nam Rishi, who gained wide recognition through the song “Olitu Maadu Manusa, Nee Irodu Mooru Divasa”—viewed by over 30 crore people and still trending—has announced his entry into film production and direction. His upcoming project is titled “Fraud Rishi”, a comedy film with a social message.
Unlike the usual practice of releasing songs after shooting, the team has chosen to release the first lyrical video before starting filming. Recently, Karnataka Rakshana Vedike state president T.A. Narayan Gowda released the film’s first song “Agadiruva Kelasa”. The event was attended by dignitaries and members of the film team.
Speaking on the occasion, Rishi said that though he became popular with the hit song, his excessive drinking had upset many, including Narayan Gowda. When he had once gone to write a song for KRV, he was inebriated, which prompted Gowda to advise him strongly. Rishi credited this advice for helping him quit alcohol over the past four months and expressed his gratitude.
Sharing details about “Fraud Rishi”, he said the film will have seven songs, out of which four will be released before shooting begins in September. He is producing the film under his own banner with support from friends. Apart from producing, he is also directing, writing the story, screenplay, dialogues, and lyrics, and playing a lead role. The film will feature three heroines, with Swathi being one of them. The first song has been sung by Manju Kavi. The team plans to release the film by December, if everything goes as expected. The technical crew includes Ramesh Krishna (music), Shankar (cinematography), and Suresh (editing).
Narayan Gowda, speaking at the event, recalled his earlier advice to Rishi, urging him to quit drinking and live up to the meaningful songs he has written. He said that Rishi respecting his words and staying away from alcohol for four months is a positive step. He also wished success to Rishi and his team in their filmmaking journey, while reminding that film production requires caution and responsibility.
Singer Manju Kavi, actress Swathi, and several members of the film team were present at the song launch event.