Hathya

I rarely watch Telugu movies, as I've been disappointed by popular blockbuster recommendations from friends. Over the years, I've gradually distanced myself from Indian cinema, with a few select exceptions. However, while watching Hathya, my skepticism quickly faded. The propulsive storyline, well-balanced performances, evocative music, and other elements made for a fulfilling cinematic experience.

After sharing with my host that I enjoyed the film, she informed me that the characters in Hathya were based on real-life individuals. She then proceeded to give me a brief history of the murder of Y. S. Vivek Reddy. I found the details utterly ghastly. Curious whether this was the only film made about the murder, I asked my host, and she directed me to another film. She cautioned me, saying, "It's sure to disappoint you. People far less picky than you about movies have denounced and rubbished it." This piqued my interest, and I urged her to tell me the name.

"Viveka," she replied.

As a gracious host, she managed to find the film on a streaming platform, and the following evening, we sat down to watch it, popcorn and sodas in hand. Within minutes, it became clear that my friend's warning about the film's quality was valid.

By this point, I was already familiar with the storyline and had spent the day researching the gruesome murder, the tragic demise of Vivek's older brother, Dr. Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy (a medical doctor turned politician), and the resulting turmoil in the state of Andhra Pradesh after his untimely death. With this backdrop in mind, I watched Viveka.

Suffice it to say, the film was justifiably criticized by my friend. Beyond its poor quality, what struck me was the audacity with which the filmmakers misrepresented the facts. The lawlessness of invoking the real names, images, and details of key figures in the story was utterly irresponsible. I am surprised no one has pursued legal action against the filmmakers for libel. To fabricate such wildly inaccurate characters, while demonizing and deifying them with fervor, ignoring the facts, and distorting both events and real individuals, should not only be condemned but also punished. It just made viewing Hathya that much more of a superior experience!