As a Kannada cinema enthusiast, I was eagerly awaiting the release of Vritta, a suspense thriller that promised a fresh narrative and a talented cast of newcomers. Directed by debutant Likith Kumar S and presented by Sathish Ninasam under his Sathish Picture House banner, Vritta hit the theatres on August 1, 2025, and it’s safe to say that it lives up to the buzz it created. With a stellar cast featuring Maahir Mohiuddin, Harini Sundararajan, and Chaithra J. Achar, this film is a bold addition to the evolving landscape of Kannada cinema.
A Haunting Tale of Choices and Consequences
Vritta revolves around Siddharth, a quiet and introspective character played by Maahir Mohiuddin, whose life takes a dark turn after a single impulsive decision. What begins as a routine night drive, sparked by an unexpected phone call and a wrong turn, spirals into a chilling journey of isolation and fractured realities. The film’s title, Vritta (meaning “circle” in Kannada), aptly reflects Siddharth’s entrapment in a relentless loop of consequences, making for a narrative that is both emotionally raw and psychologically intense.
The screenplay, penned by Yogesh Gowda with dialogues by Shankar Raman S, is a standout feature. It weaves a tight, suspenseful story that keeps you guessing. The use of synchronized sound, as highlighted by director Likith Kumar, adds a layer of authenticity, making every moment feel visceral and immersive. The cinematography by Gowtham Krishna captures the eerie, desolate vibe of the story, while the music by Antony MG and Hari Krishanth S complements the film’s tense atmosphere without overpowering it.
Performances That Shine
The cast, primarily composed of newcomers, delivers performances that are both refreshing and impactful. Maahir Mohiuddin, a theatre artist making his mark in cinema, brings depth to Siddharth. His portrayal of a man grappling with guilt and desperation is nuanced, and his intense performance in the teaser alone had set high expectations, which he fulfills effortlessly. In an interview with Times of India, Maahir spoke about the challenges of breaking into the industry without connections, and his passion for acting shines through in every frame.
Harini Sundararajan, known to some as “rinibot” on social media, brings a quiet strength to her role. Despite facing scrutiny for her appearance, as noted in a Reddit thread, Harini’s performance is grounded and relatable, proving her mettle as an actor. Her chemistry with the ensemble adds emotional weight to the narrative.
Chaithra J. Achar, another rising star, delivers a performance that balances vulnerability and resilience. Her ability to convey complex emotions makes her a perfect fit for this thriller. The supporting cast, including Prabhu Srinivas and Master Anurag, complements the leads, ensuring that every character feels integral to the story.
Why Vritta Stands Out
What sets Vritta apart is its commitment to storytelling that resonates with today’s audience. Director Likith Kumar, in an interview with The New Indian Express, emphasized the film’s unique technical aspects and character arcs. The synchronized sound design, a rarity in Kannada cinema, creates an immersive experience, while the editing by Suresh Armugam ensures a taut pace that keeps you hooked.
The film also reflects the changing tides of Kannada cinema. As Maahir Mohiuddin noted in a Times of India interview, audiences are craving fresh faces and new stories, and Vritta delivers on both fronts. It joins the ranks of recent Kannada hits like Sapta Sagaradaache Ello and Aachar & Co, which have pushed the boundaries of conventional storytelling.
Social media buzz, particularly on X, has been overwhelmingly positive. Posts from users like @CHAKRAVARTHINI4 and @karunadaJana quote Sathish Ninasam praising the film’s “raw emotion” and “rare storytelling,” calling it a testament to Kannada cinema’s rising prominence. The trailer, which has garnered over 1 million views on YouTube, further fueled anticipation, and the film lives up to that hype.
A Few Hiccups
While Vritta excels in many areas, it’s not without flaws. The pacing in the second half occasionally feels uneven, with a few moments that could have been trimmed for a tighter narrative. Additionally, the film’s reliance on psychological ambiguity might leave some viewers wanting more clarity. However, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise compelling experience.
Final Verdict
Vritta is a must-watch for fans of suspense thrillers and those who appreciate bold, character-driven stories. It’s a testament to the potential of new talent, both in front of and behind the camera. Maahir Mohiuddin, Harini Sundararajan, and Chaithra J. Achar deliver performances that linger, while Likith Kumar’s directorial vision marks him as a filmmaker to watch. Produced by T. Shivakumar under Lakshay Arts, Vritta is a shining example of Kannada cinema’s ability to innovate and captivate.
If you’re looking for a film that combines raw emotion, gripping suspense, and a fresh perspective, head to the nearest theatre and experience Vritta. Kannada cinema is indeed rising, and this film is leading the charge.
Sources: IMDb, The New Indian Express, Times of India, BookMyShow, YouTube, X posts
