Introduction
“Ekam,” a Kannada web series, is an anthology of seven unique stories set in the picturesque region of Karavali, Udupi. Conceived by Sandeep PS and Sumanth Bhat, the series delves into the spirit, mythology, and culture of the region. With each episode, viewers are taken on a journey through different facets of human experiences.
Rating : 3.75/5
Episode 1: Haaraata (Flight)
The series opens with “Haaraata,” set in the coastal village of Padoor. Here, college student Manjula (Pallavi Kodagu) navigates her feelings for her crush, Thomas (Shine Shetty). The story is a charming blend of humor, music, and innocent romance, highlighted by Manjula’s internal monologue displayed as on-screen text. Despite an abrupt ending, the episode leaves a lasting impression with its deeper, unexpected meaning.
Episode 2: Bhranthi (Delusion)
“Bhranthi,” directed by Sumanth Bhat, follows Khushi (Arunima Minj), a class 10 student, on her first day back at school. An experiment in class leads to a startling revelation for Khushi, causing her to question her reality. The episode, set against the backdrop of rain-soaked Udupi, explores the complexities of the human mind and its reactions to unexpected triggers.
Episode 3: Shoonya (Zero)
In “Shoonya,” Basuma Kodagu plays Guruva, a skilled hunter who loses his abilities when handed a gun for the first time. This episode captures Guruva’s internal struggle and the pain of losing his innate talent. The cinematography by Udit Khurana enhances the haunting and hallucinatory tone of this poignant story.
Episode 4: Dombarata (Masquerade)
Raj B Shetty stars in “Dombarata,” a satire about a Dubai-returnee trying to start a new business while saving his marriage. The episode, filled with political commentary and humor, portrays the common man’s struggles and the false promises of a better future. Despite its literal approach, the story remains engaging due to Bhat’s strong direction.
Episode 5: Swathu (Ownership)
“Swathu” revolves around the consequences of a former matinee idol’s scandalous past on a young fan and a middle-aged woman in a remote village. Although visually repetitive, the episode stands out with its powerful ending, leaving a significant impact on the viewers.
Episode 6: Poorvachara (Tradition)
“Poorvachara” features Prakash Raj and Ujwal U V in a story about a man who returns to life just before his funeral. The episode takes a bizarre and abstract route, providing a glimpse into the deep religious and cultural traditions of the region. The narrative explores how the community reacts to this unusual event, blending humor and tradition.
Episode 7: Asmite (Identity)
The final episode, “Asmite,” directed by Swaroop Elamon and Sanal Aman, tells the story of an ageing Malayalam writer (Babu Annur). This whimsical conclusion to the series offers a sweet closure, reflecting on identity and legacy. Written by Sumanth Bhat and Elamon, it ties together the themes explored throughout the series.
Conclusion
“Ekam” is not your typical binge-worthy series; it demands patience and contemplation. While the similar tone across episodes may become tiresome, the series stands out for its insightful storytelling and deep cultural roots. Co-produced by Rakshit Shetty’s Paramvah Studios, “Ekam” debuts on July 13th on its dedicated platform, ekamtheseries.com.
Final Thoughts
“Ekam” is a refreshing departure from mainstream OTT content, offering a thoughtful and immersive experience. Give this pioneering Kannada web series a chance, especially if you enjoy exploring stories that go beyond the ordinary.
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Watch the trailer of “Ekam”: YouTube
IMDb page for “Ekam”: IMDb