The Tulu film industry is set for another milestone moment. The makers of Daskath, a film that redefined Tulu cinema, have announced their next big project titled Paika. The first look of the movie has now been unveiled, raising excitement among audiences in Tulunadu and beyond. With an ensemble cast, a strong production team, and the creative leadership of director Aneesh Poojary Venur, Paika promises to continue the legacy of powerful storytelling that Daskath started.
Tulu Cinema Welcomes Paika
After the remarkable success of Daskath, the team has returned with a fresh vision in the form of Paika. Produced by Likith R Kotian, co-produced by Swasthik Arya, and directed by Aneesh Poojary Venur, the film aims to capture the essence of Tulunadu through cinema while also appealing to wider audiences. The director and production house are well remembered for Daskath, which not only entertained but also set a new benchmark for Tulu storytelling.
Creative Team Behind the Film
The strength of Paika lies in its team. The project brings together talented professionals who have been part of critically acclaimed works in Tulu cinema.
Director and Visionary
Aneesh Poojary Venur takes the director’s chair once again, carrying forward the cinematic style that gave Daskath its unique identity. His ability to combine socially relevant stories with mass entertainment has created anticipation for how Paika will unfold on screen.
Production Team
The film is produced by Likith R Kotian, who has invested his creative and financial backing to elevate the Tulu film industry. Co-producer Swasthik Arya adds further strength to the project. Together, they aim to make Paika a production that matches both local and national standards.
Technical Excellence
- Editing: Ganesh Nirchal, known for his sharp storytelling edits, is handling the film’s rhythm and pace.
- Music: Samarthan S Rao will be composing the soundtrack, expected to bring soulful yet powerful music to complement the narrative.
- Cinematography (DOP): Santosh Acharya will capture Tulunadu’s culture, landscapes, and emotions through his lens.
Star Cast of Paika
The film brings together a young and dynamic cast:
- Prajnesh Shetty
- Nishith Shetty
- Neeraj Kunjarpa
- Deekshith K Andinje
- Manjoj Anand
- Deekshith Dharmasthala
- Vinodhraj Kalmanj
These names are expected to connect with audiences through fresh performances, building on the growing demand for strong characters in Tulu films.
From Daskath to Paika: A Journey of Growth
The earlier film Daskath was a turning point in Tulu cinema. Unlike the usual comedy-dominated narratives, it presented a socially charged story about Shekhar, a young man who challenged corruption and injustice in his village. The film stood out for its bold storytelling and resonated with audiences across Karnataka.
Recognition and Awards for Daskath
- Received the 3rd Best Kannada Cinema Award from the Kannada Chalanachitra Academy.
- Applauded for its fresh approach to Tulu filmmaking.
- Later dubbed into Kannada, expanding its reach beyond Tulu-speaking audiences.
With such achievements, Daskath proved that Tulu cinema could handle diverse genres and themes, setting a strong foundation for Paika.
What Audiences Can Expect from Paika
While the team has not yet revealed the complete storyline, expectations are already high. Based on the director’s style and the success of Daskath, Paika is likely to feature:
- A strong central theme rooted in Tulunadu culture.
- Powerful performances from the new cast.
- A cinematic experience that balances regional flavor with universal appeal.
- Music and visuals designed to enhance storytelling rather than just entertain.
Tulu Cinema’s Expanding Reach
In recent years, Tulu cinema has been gaining recognition beyond its traditional boundaries. Movies like Daskath have shown that regional films, when crafted with sincerity and quality, can cross linguistic and cultural barriers. Paika is expected to build on this momentum, bringing Tulunadu stories to larger audiences.
Contribution to Regional Identity
Films like Paika are not just entertainment but also carriers of local culture, dialect, and traditions. They strengthen the identity of Tulunadu on the cinematic map of India.
Growing Industry Support
With new producers, actors, and technicians entering the industry, Tulu cinema is slowly expanding its capacity. The involvement of younger filmmakers like Aneesh Poojary Venur demonstrates a generational shift toward more experimental and impactful filmmaking.
Industry Response and Expectations
The announcement of Paika has already created buzz among Tulu film enthusiasts, critics, and industry insiders. Social media platforms have been flooded with supportive messages, with fans expressing eagerness to witness how the team will follow up the success of Daskath. Many see Paika as a defining project that can further elevate the standard of Tulu movies.
A New Chapter in Tulu Storytelling
The unveiling of the first look is only the beginning. With production underway, more updates on trailers, music releases, and the official release date are expected soon. For now, Paika represents the spirit of Tulu cinema — rooted in tradition, bold in narrative, and ambitious in its outreach.