Gandhi Tatha Chettu Movie Review : A Soulful Tale of Peace, Persistence, and Values

Story: Set in a quaint village, the plot centres around a 13-year-old girl named Gandhi (Sukriti Veni Bandreddi). Inspired by the ideals of non-violence and satyagraha championed by Mahatma Gandhi, she embarks on a mission to protect a tree planted in his memory—a tree that holds profound significance for her grandfather (Ananda Chakrapani). As external forces threaten to uproot this symbol of peace, how did young Gandhi rally her community, employing peaceful resistance to safeguard it?

Review: Gandhi Tatha Chettu, directed by Padmavathi Malladi, is a heartfelt tribute to the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi. The film, which was crowdfunded, revolves around the relevance of non-violence and satyagraha, as seen through the lens of a simple village setting. At the centre of the narrative is a tree planted in honour of Gandhi—a poignant metaphor for values that are deeply rooted yet threatened in today’s world. Malladi masterfully captures the simplicity of rural life, weaving a message-oriented tale that resonates with moral depth. The pacing is deliberately slow, allowing the story to establish itself and breathe, reflecting the patience required to absorb the film’s themes. The director's commitment to telling a story that uplifts society is commendable and refreshing.

The film introduces Sukriti Veni Bandreddi, director Sukumar’s daughter, whose debut performance as the innocent and determined protagonist is remarkable. Her portrayal of a young girl standing firm in her beliefs is both moving and relatable. Ananda Chakrapani excels as the wise grandfather, bringing warmth and gravity to his role. Rag Mayur delivers a sharp and convincing performance as the cunning businessman, adding tension to the narrative. The supporting cast, including Bhanu Prakash, Nehal Anand Kunkuma, Raghuram and Lavanya Reddy, offer nuanced performances that breathe life into the village community. Collectively, the cast ensures that the story remains grounded and impactful.

The technical finesse of Gandhi Tatha Chettu enhances its storytelling. The cinematography by Vishwa Devabattula and Srijitha Cheruvupally beautifully captures the rural backdrop, showcasing the idyllic charm and simplicity of village life. The music by Ree, subtle yet evocative, complements the narrative, while the well-crafted ambient sounds—like rustling leaves or a tumbler clanging in a brass tub—add authenticity and depth. The production design authentically recreates the village environment, enriching the overall viewing experience.

While Gandhi Tatha Chettu is a commendable piece of storytelling, the film’s slow pace, while intentional to build the narrative, may deter viewers accustomed to the brisk storytelling of commercial cinema. Certain sequences feel overly didactic, with the messaging occasionally coming across as heavy-handed. A tighter screenplay and more dynamic pacing in the first half could have elevated the overall experience. Despite these shortcomings, the film’s sincerity and message-oriented core shine through.

Gandhi Tatha Chettu is not just a film—it is an experience that invites introspection. Its rooted narrative, underpinned by Gandhian principles, serves as a gentle reminder of values that can transform society. While its slow-burn approach requires patience, the moral takeaway and artistic execution make it worthwhile.