By V.S. Rajapur
Film: “Maleyali Jotheyali”; Cast: Ganesh, Anjana Sukhani, Yuvika Choudhary, Rangayana Raghu, Sharan, Sihi Kahi Chandru; Director: Preetham Gubbi; Producer: Shilpa Ganesh; Camera; S. Krishna; Music: Hari Krishna; Rating: *** 1/2

Writer-director Preetham Gubbi seems to have learnt a lesson from his directorial debut “Haage Summane” as his second venture “Maleyali Jotheyali” turns out to be a pleasant film.

Golden Star Ganesh plays lead role in the film, which his wife Shilpa Ganesh has produced. The film has its share of commercial elements, but what is more appealing about it is that it has a gripping climax and the audience comes out of the theatre with a positive mind.

The film’s story, which revolves round a guy trying to woo a girl with the help of another woman, is not a new concept. But Preetham Gubbi’s presentation is such that it appeals to all age groups.

Gubbi seems to be influenced by Ganesh’s blockbuster “Mungaru Male” for which he wrote the story. There are deliberate attempts to revive the memories of “Mungaru Male” as well his another successful film “Cheluvina Chiththaara”.

In the first half, the film moves at a slow pace, but it picks up in the latter part. The last 25 minutes of the film make a great impact.

Ganesh plays Preetham, pampered son of a rich man who is fascinated by rain. His superstitious father wants him to get married, but Preetham and his friend hatch a plan to thwart his attempt.

Later Ganesh is sent to a village near Sakleshpur where he meets two girls - Shwetha and Anjali. He falls in love with Shwetha and requests Anjali to help him in wooing her.

One day Anjali disappears and Preetham goes to Bangalore to find her. The rest of the film deals with his journey to Bangalore and his relentless search to find Anjali. A tragic twist is also included in the climax to heighten the emotional quotient.

Ganesh gives a fantastic performance. Among the two Bollywood heroines, it is Yuvika who is impressive, while Anjana Sukhani looks glamorous. Rangayana Raghu and Sharan are impressive. The rest of the cast is passable.

Music director Harikrishna and Cameraman S. Krishna have done a wonderful job. Deepu’s editing is competent.

“Maleyali Jotheyali” is an enjoyable fare and a feast for Ganesh’s fans.