Remember the 1982 hit film, Manasa Sarovara ? Directed by Puttanna Kanagal, the film had Srinath, Padmavasanthi and Ramakrishna in prominent roles. But why talk about this film now? Well, the same actors are coming together after 36 years for a TV series with the same title. Another speciality about it is that the hat-trick hero Shivarajkumar has lent his voice for the serial which is considered a sequel to the yesteryear’s film.
The serial seems to be creating quite a buzz even before it has taken off on the small screen with Shivanna promoting it in short videos that are shared on Whatsapp. That’s not all. His daughter, Niveditha is producing the serial, which will be telecast on Udaya TV from February 26 onwards.
The serial takes off where the film ends — Dr Anand’s insanity. Talking on the phone from Ooty amidst a hectic schedule, Shivanna talks about the show and his inputs.
Excerpts
Why did you not want to make a sequel on film?
Yes, it is a sequel and talks about what happens to the lead characters after their wedding. My daughter is taking care of the serial with my wife’s support. This was our idea of getting them involved in producing serials and then progressing to films. The idea is to also bring in newcomers and give them a platform rather than me taking all the limelight.
The cast of the film is part of the serial?
Yes, the cast is a part of the serial. You have to watch it to find out what the story is all about.
Will this serial too drag on for years once it gains popularity? How different will Manasa Sarovara be?
Even I don’t know how it will progress. All I can say is that it is a sincere attempt from our side and the story has turned out very well. That is what we want to maintain and also keep up the standard of the narration without letting boredom creep in either for us or the viewers. We have all put in our best into this – be it the cast or the production team.
How do you see TV as a medium?
It is a good medium. Of course, cinema is a totally different medium and nothing can be compared to it. TV is not small at all due to its massive reach. People relate to it and have the luxury of watching serials and talk shows at leisure, in the comfort of their homes. That is the advantage of television.
What about your talk show Yaari No. I Shivanna for Star Suvarna ?
It is all about friendship and how important it is. There will be a little pulling of legs, and a very open interview with friends from the industry.
Cast of the serial
Coming to films, you always avoided remakes but now you are a part of the remake – Kavacha . How different is this from the other films?
It is very different. I play a blind man in the film and will not be wearing dark glasses to cover my eyes. I am excited to be a part of this as it is truly a challenging for me as an actor. This role has opened my eyes to what challenges and hardships blind people face in their lives. I am looking forward to this film.
Manasa Sarovara will be telecast on Udaya Tv from February 26 at 9.30 pm.
