Mangaluru: Tulu film lovers have a reason to celebrate. After a long gap of nine years, acclaimed director, playwright, and writer Vijay Kumar Kodialbail has officially launched his new Tulu film Doctora Batraa. The muhurtha ceremony was held on August 24 at the historic Kadri Temple in Mangaluru.
The event drew the presence of leading Tulu cinema icons Devadas Kapikad and Naveen D Padil, who joined in blessing the project.
A Director’s Comeback After 9 Years
Vijay Kumar Kodialbail last directed the much-loved Tulu comedy Madime in 2016. Now, nearly a decade later, he is returning to the director’s chair with Doctora Batraa, a project that has already created a buzz in the coastal film community.
Vijay Kumar New Movie ‘Doctora Batraa’
Kodialbail is no stranger to success. His blockbuster Oriyardori Asal (2011) remains one of the biggest hits in Tulu cinema. He has also left a mark with films like Pattanaje (2017) and Pathis Gang (2018), alongside his theatre legacy. His iconic stage play Shivadoota Guliga recently celebrated its historic 555th performance, staged in multiple languages and acclaimed across India and abroad.
A Shift from Comedy to New Subjects
Speaking at recent events, Kodialbail emphasized that Tulu audiences are ready for fresh stories beyond comedy, a genre that has long dominated coastal entertainment. With Doctora Batraa, expectations are high that he will blend humor with new themes, continuing his mission to push the boundaries of Tulu cinema.
Cultural Significance
Launching the movie at Kadri Temple not only gave the project a traditional start but also reflected the deep-rooted connection between Tulu cinema and local culture.
For fans, Doctora Batraa marks more than just another film release—it signals the return of one of Tulu’s most influential storytellers, who has spent decades shaping both theatre and cinema with passion and innovation.
With blessings from the community and industry stalwarts, the stage is now set for Doctora Batraa to carry forward Vijay Kumar Kodialbail’s creative legacy.