In a milestone celebration, the Tulu-language film "Nirel" commemorates its 10th anniversary today, having left an indelible mark as the first movie produced overseas and entirely shot in the Gulf region. Directed by Ranjith Bajpe and jointly produced by Shodhan Prasad and San Poojary, the film weaves a narrative around ambition, passion, and relationships, capturing the essence of life in the Gulf.

The film, based on the Kannada script "Nadu Naduve" by Karthik Gowda and adapted into Tulu by Ranjith Bajpe, showcases the journey of three main characters portrayed by Anoop Sagar, Varuna Shetty, and Deepthi Salian. Anoop, an engineer with dreams of becoming a film hero, intertwines his fate with Varuna, a modern and independent banker in Dubai, and Deepthi, a family friend. The storyline skillfully navigates through the complexities of ambition, emotions, and romance, offering a unique blend of comedy and heartfelt moments.

The cast, selected through auditions at Fortune Grand Hotel Dubai, includes Anoop Sagar, Varuna Shetty, Deepthi Salian, Sachin Padil, Deepak Paladka, Rajendra Pai, Vidya, Nindiya Prasad, Ashok Palan, Subhash, Vishwapathi Bhat, Anand Salian, Sandhya Prasad, and a special appearance by Andria D'Souza, with a cameo by Ramesh Aravind.

"Nirel" not only stands as a cinematic achievement but also as a testament to the collaborative efforts of four friends—San Poojary, Ranjith Bajpe, Rajneesh Amin, and Sachin Padil—who embarked on a creative journey that resonated with audiences beyond cultural boundaries.

The film's portrayal of life in the Gulf, coupled with its engaging narrative, drew attention not only for its cultural significance but also for its humorous and emotionally resonant storytelling. With scenes shot against the backdrop of iconic locations in the UAE, "Nirel" presents a cinematic experience that transcends language barriers.

As the Tulu film industry gained recognition on the global stage, "Nirel" played a pivotal role in showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Its success opened doors for more overseas productions and paved the way for other filmmakers to explore storytelling in diverse languages.

A decade since its premiere, "Nirel" remains a cinematic gem that continues to be cherished by audiences, its enduring appeal a testament to the universal themes it explores. As the film marks this significant milestone, fans and the cast alike reflect on the impact it has had, not just as a movie but as a cultural bridge that brought Tulu cinema to the international stage. Congratulations to the team behind "Nirel" on a decade of cinematic excellence, passion, and storytelling that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.