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Bagheera is a highly-anticipated Kannada film that was in production for over three years. With a story by Prashanth Neel and screenplay and direction by Dr Suri—Neel’s close associate who also worked as a writer in Salaar—the moment people in Karnataka heard that Srii Murali and Neel were collaborating again, excitement knew no bounds. So, what makes this vigilante-hero action drama a must-watch? Here are five reasons why.
The last collaboration between Ugramm’s lead star Srii Murali and writer Prashanth Neel marked a milestone in Kannada cinema. Neel’s debut film, Ugramm, transformed Murali into the ‘Roaring Star’ he is today, as his character, Agastya, became a pop culture icon. Their return with Bagheera, with Neel as the scriptwriter, has fans eagerly anticipating the unique flavour this duo brings. Director Dr Suri, a close associate of Neel, joins forces, making this reunion extra special for fans of Kannada cinema.
Srii Murali and Prashanth Neel (Photo – Instagram/ Srii Murali)
In the role of the vigilante lead, Murali has committed to an intense physical transformation, overhauling his diet and workout regimen to bring the powerful character of Bagheera to life. Famous for joking about his “foodie struggles” during three years without biriyani, ghee, or butter, Murali’s dedication shines through. As both the cop Vedanth and the vigilante Bagheera, he showcases a superhero-like strength and conviction in the film’s promos, revealing just how deeply he’s embraced this dual role.
Srii Murali’s intense physical transformation for Bagheera
With his directorial work on Bagheera, Dr Suri aims to redefine the vigilante genre in Indian cinema. Having worked as a writer on Salaar and partnered with Hombale Films, Suri channels his admiration for characters like Batman, focusing on Bagheera’s reliance on physical strength and gadgets rather than supernatural powers. His grounded approach to gritty superheroes offers an alternative to the traditional superhero genre and has fans intrigued by the story’s layered approach and cultural relatability.
While Indian cinema has produced notable superhero vigilantes like Mr India, Krrish, and Bhavesh Joshi Superhero, Bagheera brings a Kannada hero inspired by Western vigilantes, particularly Batman, blending global appeal with local relevance. Films like Minnal Murali (Malayalam) and Hanu-Man (Telugu) have gained traction for rooted, realistic superhero narratives, and Bagheera joins this trend by offering a hero with regional depth, grounded challenges, and relatable motivations that will resonate with the Indian audience.
In a restrained promotional strategy, Bagheera’s team, led by Murali and Dr Suri, chose to keep the plot under wraps, encouraging audiences to experience the story without expectations. This no-spoiler approach, combined with an emphasis on the film’s themes and character depth, builds curiosity and sets clear expectations for audiences. By focusing on a grounded vigilante character, free of overselling, Bagheera promises a refreshing entry into the superhero genre.
The anticipation surrounding Bagheera has been met with careful, strategic promotion, ensuring a unique experience that reflects the team’s creative vision for a modern Indian vigilante.