Gaadi Film

"Gaadi" (Sinhala: ගාඩි) is a remarkable 2019 Sri Lankan Sinhala historical road film, skillfully directed by Prasanna Vithanage. This cinematic creation is a testament to cross-border collaboration, being co-produced as a Sri Lankan-Indian joint production by H.D. Premasiri and Sandya Salgado for Film Island, Prasanna Vithanage Productions, and Alan McAlex and Ajay Rai for Mumbai-based Jar Pictures, an esteemed Indian motion picture production company. The film unfolds against the backdrop of 1814, during the twilight days of the Kandyan Kingdom. The heart of the narrative beats with the compelling story of Tikiri, a woman who endures the harrowing fate of being stripped of her nobility and forced into marriage with an outcast by the monarchy. "Gaadi" premiered on the 8th of October 2019 at the 24th Busan International Film Festival to critical acclaim. It was showered with stellar reviews, solidifying its place as a cinematic masterpiece that transcends boundaries. The film's excellence was further underscored when it was selected as one of the 100 Asian films that audiences should not miss by the International Film Festival in 2019. In January 2020, "Gaadi" garnered well-deserved recognition, earning a Special Jury Award at the 18th International Dhaka Film Festival, a testament to its captivating storytelling and artistic brilliance. The cast of "Gaadi" includes the talented Sajitha Anthony, who assumes the role of Vijaya, and debut actress Dinara Punchihewa, who brings Tikiri's character to life. The film also features the formidable acting prowess of Shyam Fernando and Ravindra Randeniya. The musical score, composed by K, enriches the narrative with its emotive melodies. The film's plot revolves around Tikiri's resilience and determination in the face of adversity as she grapples with a forced marriage and societal constraints. Her unwavering spirit and refusal to succumb to her predetermined destiny form the crux of this compelling story. "Gaadi" also found its place on the international stage, with screenings at renowned film festivals such as the 3rd I South Asian Film Festival in San Francisco, the 21st Kerala International Film Festival, the 18th Pune International Film Festival, the 49th International Film Festival Rotterdam, and the Bengaluru International Film Festival, among others. Notable accolades bestowed upon "Gaadi" include the Best Film - Special Jury Mention at the 18th Dhaka International Film Festival and the Emerald Dove Award at the 3rd Independent Film Festival of Chennai. Additionally, it received the Cultural Diversity Award (UNESCO) at the 14th Asia Pacific Screen Awards, further solidifying its status as a cinematic treasure that celebrates the resilience of the human spirit and the power of storytelling.