Rudra Garuda Purana Movie Review: A Thrilling Blend of Mystery and Justice

Cinema Buzz Box brings you an in-depth review of “Rudra Garuda Purana,” an intriguing mystery thriller that combines ancient wisdom with contemporary themes.

Rudra Garuda Purana is not your average mystery thriller. Inspired by the ancient Garuda Purana, one of Hinduism’s 18 Mahapuranas, the film explores the afterlife, karma, and moral dilemmas. Directed by K.S. Nandeesh, the movie attempts to weave these themes into a suspense, drama, and action narrative.

The story begins with two tragic events: a suspected black magic ritual gone wrong and a school building collapse due to shoddy construction. These incidents set the stage for Rudra, a determined cop with a fiery attitude, to take on a case that’s anything but ordinary.

Rudra, portrayed by Rishi, is an unconventional police officer who doesn’t shy away from challenging authority. Following a transfer from Bengaluru to Mysuru due to his unorthodox methods, he is assigned to the Horse and Band Department. However, Rudra’s life takes a turn when he is unofficially tasked with investigating the disappearance of MLA Devi Shetty’s son, Manu.

What starts as a missing person case soon spirals into a labyrinth of political conspiracies, ancient rituals, and a decades-old tragedy involving the 17A Kaveri Express. The film’s narrative cleverly intertwines these elements, keeping the audience on edge as Rudra delves deeper into the mystery.

Rishi’s portrayal of Rudra is the backbone of the film. He brings depth to his character, balancing fiery determination with moments of vulnerability. Priyanka Kumar plays Divya, a principled young woman who adds emotional layers to the story. Though her screen time is limited, her performance provides a meaningful counterpoint to Rudra’s intensity.

Vinod Alva as MLA Devi Shetty and Avinash as a senior police officer deliver noteworthy performances, adding credibility to the film’s political undertones. Girish Shivanna’s comedic timing as Govindu brings light moments to an otherwise intense narrative.

Director K.S. Nandeesh skillfully merges ancient myths with modern-day issues. His use of the mysterious Pan Am Flight 914 legend as a conceptual backdrop for the 17A Kaveri Express tragedy adds a chilling layer to the story. The pacing, while uneven at times, picks up significantly in the second half, leading to a gripping climax.

Rudra Garuda Purana delves into the consequences of corruption and the power of karma. The film’s central message resonates through Rudra’s quest for justice, inspired by his father’s moral teachings. Each challenge Rudra faces highlights the thin line between right and wrong, adding complexity to the narrative.

The visual storytelling is complemented by stunning cinematography, especially during travel sequences and the climax in Sakleshpur. However, the music occasionally feels disjointed, detracting from the overall experience.

Rudra Garuda Purana is a unique blend of genres, offering a fresh take on mystery thrillers. While its pacing issues and inconsistent music may deter some viewers, the film’s intriguing plot and strong performances make it a compelling watch.

Rudra’s journey—both personal and professional—ties together themes of justice, morality, and karma. The film’s conclusion, where Rudra envisions a school built on equity and fairness, is a powerful nod to the teachings of the Garuda Purana.

1. Unique Storyline: A rare mix of ancient philosophy and modern-day drama.
2. Strong Performances: Rishi’s portrayal of Rudra stands out.
3. Engaging Mystery: The twists and turns keep you hooked till the end.

For fans of mystery thrillers with a philosophical edge, Rudra Garuda Purana is a must-watch. Its thought-provoking themes and riveting storytelling make it a one-time watch worth your time.

Watch Trailer Here

For more intriguing movie reviews, check out my review of the Kannada movie ‘Choo Mantar‘!

Cinema Buzz Box | Author: Kumar