Bhagavadajjukam — Bridging Ancient Sanskrit Comedy and Contemporary Craft.
- Pradeep Shankar
- Jul 15
- 1 min read
Bhagavadajjukam (2021), directed by Yadu Vijayakrishnan, draws from the original 7th-century Sanskrit play by Bodhayana, blending satirical humour with Bodhisattva-inspired role reversal. The premise: a monk’s companion and a courtesan swap souls, setting off a chain of comedic, philosophical events siff.com+3FilmFreeway+3Wikipedia+3.
Festival Laurels & Awards
International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2021 – World Premiere and official selection in the Indian Panorama section MUBI+3FilmFreeway+3Wikipedia+3.
Kerala Film Critics Award – Winner of Best Sanskrit Film, celebrating authenticity and cultural preservationWikipedia.
Shanghai International Film Festival / BRICS Film Festival 2022 – Officially selected during the BRICS line-up, highlighting its global resonance siff.com.
Craft & Post-Production: Editing & Colour
Behind its sharp pacing and visual coherence is the meticulous editing and colour work of Pradeep Shankar, completed at M5 Media Works in Thiruvananthapuram. Credited as both Editor and Colourist, Shankar shapes the film’s rhythm—balancing comedic timing with reflective beats .
Viewers and critics laud the seamless transitions and tone-matching colour palette—elements often understated but essential in preserving the play’s ancient spirit for modern screens.
Why It Matters
Cultural Revival: Reviving classical Sanskrit literature on screen with sensitivity and wit.
International Acclaim: Recognition across continents—India, Kerala, Shanghai—underscores its universal appeal.
Post-Production Excellence: Editing and colouring don’t just polish the film—they amplify its narrative heart.
Final Take
Bhagavadajjukam isn’t just a clever translation of an ancient text—it’s a celebration of how modern filmmaking tools and craft (thanks to Pradeep Shankar at M5 Media Works) can bring timeless stories to vibrant life. It's a must-watch for lovers of culture, comedy, and cinematic artistry.




Comments