Maathaad Maathaadu Mallige is a Kannada language film directed by Nagathihalli Chandrashekhar. Maathaad Maathaadu Mallige can be roughly transliterated from North Karnataka's colloquial Kannada as Speak, Speak out, Jasmine. Maathaad Maathaad Mallige depicts the challenges faced by the people living in rural sectors of India. Dr. Vishnuvardhan's Performance and Nagathihalli's Narration was much praised by critics. Dr.Vishnuvardhan was the right choice for the film, his build, looks and age made the role look strong. His Performance was emotional, graceful and touching.It is also said that it was courageous on his part to accept such a role that had no space for his action image. It is certainly one of his best performances.
Plot
The film starts with a happy small family of Hoovaiah and Kanaka having a small field growing flowers of Mallige, Sampige and other flowers which spread fragrance. The couple have three daughters in a small village of Jenu Koppa. Hoovaiah stands true to his devotion to Gandhi philosophy of Satyagraha come whatever may facing with nonchalance and non-violence. Globalization companies cause problems for the village as there are rich mine deposits nearby. Hoovaiah, zamindar of Jenu Koppa village, is a flower seller. Villagers revere him. When the government gives an MNC the licence to acquire land for mining in Jenukoppa, he strongly opposes it. But Kurupayya joins hands with politicians and officials and tries to brainwash people to sell their land for a huge amount. Police atrocities and lathi charges on villagers force Hoovaiah to fight a lone battle against land acquisition. Fed up by the turn of events, all villagers decide to leave the village. But Hoovaiah launches a hunger strike to save the village and finally wins the battle.
The film got positive reviews upon its release. Reddiff.com gave 4/5 stars saying "Maathaad Maathaadu Mallige is not a film with slow paced narration; it is a commercial film with a good message. A must-see film.". Times of India gave 4/5 stars and wrote "VISHNUVARDHAN'S brilliance and an excellent script by Nagathihalli Chandrasekhar make Mathad Mathadu Mallige a film worth watching". Indiaglitz.com gave score 8/10 stating "This is not just a film. Film that is food for thought too! It is an awakening cinema and clarion call for the villagers and farmers."
