'Rakshasa', on the daring exploits of a cop

Bangalore, March 23 (IANS) The title of Kannada film "Rakshasa" did spark off a controversy because it was the first time a negative title was registered for a film with Shivaraj Kumar.

Director Sadhu Kokila and producer Ramu of Ramu Films took pains to explain the relevance of the title, which means demon.

Shivaraj, who has a soft image and has acted in several films over two decades, also defended the title.

The film deals with the heroic exploits of a daring assistant commissioner of police. His questionable methods of eliminating criminals invite the concern of many people, including rights activists.

He tells an inquiry committee that suffering people can get justice when the criminals are finished.

Sadhu, who had earlier directed successful films like "Raktha Kanneeru" with Upendra, says the film has several attractive features.

"You will agree with me after seeing this film that no other artiste would have suited Shivaraj's role better," says Sadhu.

Producer Ramu is known for his Kannada blockbusters. Many of his films have been dubbed or remade in other languages like Telugu and Tamil.

Ramu says he had heard the story of the film from young writer Ranganath and found it interesting.

"In one of my meetings with music director Sadhu, during the making of my 'Kalasi Palya', I narrated the story. Sadhu showed a lot of interest and offered to direct this film."

Apart from Shivaraj, the cast includes Gajala, Tejaswini, Umesh, Maina Chandru, and Ramesh Pandith.