The buzz around a star film is palpable, and so it is with Sudeep's Kotigobba 2. Hardcore fans are going all out to make its release, fast approaching, memorable.
Akila Karanataka Kiccha Sudeepa Sena Samithi has set aside Rs 7 lakh for the event. Of this, Rs 5 lakh is for flower decoration along roads leading to Santhosh, the main theatre the film will be released in. A 70-ft cut-out of Sudeep will be erected there.
"We are making sure the entire area looks festive on Friday. Some hardcore fans will come together to watch the first show," says Jagadish aka Jaggi, a member of samithi.
Fans are also organising a blood donation camp in Doddabalapur on the eve of the release. Some others have have been putting up film posters on their cars.
What pushes them to go to these lengths? Jaggi says, "Sudeep has been growing to greater heights, and this is how we shower our love on him."
Jaggi says Sudeep has helped the likes of him fulfil their passion and lead a better life.
"I have been a fan for 13 years," he says.
"I started with doing small jobs for him. He recognised my potential, helped me towards achieving that. Today, I am a company — Jaggi Digital Signs — and I have 10 people working for me."
Naveen Gowda, a fan of 14 years, used to hold an umbrella for the star, he adds.
"Today he owns the eatery chain Donne Biriyani Mane," he says.