Pics: Daya Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network-Mangaluru (SB)
Mangaluru, Jul 21: The audio release of the much awaited Kannada film 'March 22' was held in a glittering ceremony here at Father Muller Convention Centre here on Thursday, July 20. The film is is produced by well-known Dubai-based entrepreneur Harish Sherigar and his wife Sharmila Sherigar under the banner ACME Movies International and directed by Kodlu Ramakrishna.
Veteran actor Anant Nag released the audio songs of 'March 22' and Ashish Vidhyarti released the teaser of the song.
President of Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce Sa Ra Govindu and MUDA chairman Suresh Ballal launched the website of ACME Movies International.
Welcoming the gathering, Harish Sherigar said, "Our region is well-known for unity. Communal harmony in our district was hailed internationally. But, in the recent years, some anti-social elements have spread disharmony. So keeping this in mind and to give a positive message of unity, I produced 'March 22'. Scarcity of water is also an important feature in this film. I have special reason to release the audio in Mangaluru. This my native place and love it."
Mayor Kavitha Sanil congartulated the Shrigar couple on the occasion. She said, "The couple has spent a huge amount to give a good message to the society along with entertainment. I am proud of them. In my knowledge, this is the first audio launch of a Kannada movie in this city. We are happy to have a legend like Anant Nag amonst us. I have watched a lot of his movies in my childhood. 'March 22' is a gift for us given by ACME Movies International. The title itself gives a message. March 22 is a day dedicated for water. I also came to know that this movie is based on the message of communal harmony and water scarcity. Our region has been witnessing communal disturbances and clashes. So I think this is the right time to release the movie to convey a strong message against anti-social elements."
Director of Father Muller Charitable Institution Fr Richard Coelho said, "Mangaluru is a holy region because there is peaceful co-existence here. Some forces are trying to spoil the good image of Mangaluru. We should fight against this. Movies like 'March 22' is the best way to send a message to anti-social forces and sperad brotherhood and love. Humanity and harmony is a must for today's society. 'March 22' shoud reach all over the world."
Dr Akhtar Hussain of Yenepoya University congratulated Harish Sherigar for giving a meaningful film to the society and said, "Cinema is not only for entertainment. It should inculcate social values. We Indians live a life with a fusion of culture and life style. Nationalism and and moral values binds us into a single knot. But nowadays politics is spoiling everything. The selfishness of politicians has ruined the society. But we, the common people, should take care of our society. I wish Harish Sherigar the very best and assure him all support."
Wishing success to the movie actor Ashish Vidhyarthi said, "I am proud of a Mangalurean who is Harish Sherigar. It is a wonderful experience for me to associate with him. He is a person who always thinks about the society and his native. You Mangalureans are lucky to have such a great personality amongst you. I liked the story of 'March 22'. It presents many social issues which are happening around us. There is no doubt that the movie will make you happy."
Actor Anant Nag said, "God has united our family with the Sherigar family. They are one of the best couples I have ever seen in my life. I am thankful to them for their hospitality. In my early days, I took part in Kannada and Konkani dramas. Then I relocated to Mumbai to train myself in acting. I got to meet many legends over there and learned more about acting. I am approaching 50 years of my acting career. At this moment, it is my pleasure to be part of 'March 22'. It is a big budget film made with the intention to create awareness. I know that Mangalureans are famous for supporting each other. Harish Sherigar also need your support. The movie will definitly be a huge success. All the best to the director and the entire team."
Boyzone dance troup performed on the songs of 'March 22'. Harish Sherigar and Anant Nag entertained the audience with their songs.
Well-known philanthropist Harikrishna Punaroor, renowned neurologist Dr K V Devadiga, MD and chairman of AJ Hospital Dr A J Shetty, M K Harishchandra of Marine Crafts Equipments, Giridhar Bhat, Astrologer Ashok Purohit, P C Mallappa of Mallappa Enterprises, Dr Bhaskar Shetty, Shrinivas Sherigar, Prakash Sherigar, lead actors Arya Vardhan and Kiran Raj, actresses Megha Shree and Deepti Shetty, Sharath Lohitashwa, Ravi Kale, Veeresh Chitraloka, Jack Manju, Kari Subbu, MN Suresh, music director Manikant Kadri, Ravishekar Rajmoga, Keerthi Gowda were also present.