Ritvvik Mathad Makes Cinematic Comeback with 'Maarnami'
Actor Ritvikh Mathad is marking his return to the big screen with the film Maarnami, which is currently running in theatres. The movie presents a romantic narrative infused with rich cultural flavors, offering audiences a heartfelt story that resonates deeply with traditional roots.
A Deeply Personal Filmmaking Experience
For Ritvvik, this project has been an intensely personal journey, both on and off the set. He emphasizes that the film focuses purely on relationships and emotions, without any supernatural elements. "There is no supernatural angle—it's purely about their relationship and the emotions between them," the actor explains, highlighting the film's authentic emotional core.
Mastering the Challenging Folk Dance Sequence
One of the most demanding aspects of filming was performing a traditional folk dance during the climax. Ritvvik reveals that the sequence was shot over four consecutive nights, marking his first experience wearing the elaborate Huli Vesha costume.
"I used to think it was simple, but once I started dancing, I realized how much energy it requires," he shares. "Even for 30 seconds, you have to give your full power. It's not as easy as it looks, but I really enjoyed the experience." This physical challenge added a layer of authenticity to his performance, connecting him more deeply with the cultural essence of the film.
Transitioning from Television to Cinema
Although Maarnami represents his return to films after a gap, Ritvvik notes that he never felt distant from acting, having remained active in television serials. He points out key differences between the two mediums.
"In serials, we shoot 11 to 12 scenes a day, while in films it's one or two, so you get more time to prepare and understand the character," he says. This slower pace in cinema allows for greater depth in character development and performance refinement.
Collaborative Chemistry with Co-Star Chaitra
Ritvvik credits his co-star Chaitra for creating a comfortable and supportive working environment. As someone who describes himself as shy and introverted, he appreciated her initiative in breaking the ice.
"She took the initiative to talk and put me at ease. She's a strong performer, and it became easier to match her in emotional scenes. Honestly, the credit for our chemistry goes to her," he acknowledges, underscoring the importance of collaborative dynamics in filmmaking.
Involvement Beyond Acting: A Holistic Filmmaking Role
Maarnami was more than just an acting assignment for Ritvvik; he was involved in multiple aspects of production from the outset. His contributions spanned from story development and producer coordination to hands-on work in camera and art departments.
"I've worked across departments, including camera and art. What I take back is a wealth of experience from every aspect of filmmaking," he states, reflecting on the comprehensive skills he gained through this multifaceted involvement.
The Resonance of Rooted Cinema in Kannada Industry
Ritvvik believes that Kannada cinema is currently experiencing a strong audience connection with culturally rooted stories. He asserts that films reflecting local traditions and values tend to resonate more easily with viewers.
"Whenever we reflect our roots and culture, audiences connect easily. Our film also comes from that space," he remarks. However, he also dismisses the notion that the industry is limited to one genre, noting a healthy balance between rooted narratives and commercial entertainers.
This blend ensures that Kannada cinema remains diverse and dynamic, catering to a wide range of audience preferences while staying true to its cultural heritage.
