‘Ibbani Tabbida Ileyali’ Film Review: Reflections on Love and Heartache.

The movie opens with a classic family wedding, where we meet Sid, a young entrepreneur who finds himself struggling with uncertainty and indecision.

In the gentle moments where dew drops caress the morning grass and sunlight envelops the Earth in a warm glow, a love story comes to life. Chandrajith Belliappa’s poignant blog, “Dew Drops, Sunshine, and a Blade of Grass,” captivates producer Rakshit Shetty, awakening a long-buried passion within him.

His words seeped into his mind, nurturing the inspiration that blossomed into the film “Ibbani Tabbida Ileyali.” This work transcends mere storytelling; it offers an immersive experience—a profound exploration of love, uncertainty, and the intricacies of human connections. The narrative unfolds across ten chapters through the eyes of the main character, Siddharth Ashok.

The film opens with a traditional family wedding, introducing Sid (Vihan), a young businessman wrestling with his indecision. He faces the significant choice of whether to marry Radha (Mayuri Nataraja), a woman a decade younger than him. The plot delves into the fragile balance between affection and love, questioning the fairness of marriage when one partner struggles to feel love for the other.

Radha embodies quiet strength, and her dreams of a future with Sid are beautifully captured in the song ‘Radhe,’ which reflects her inner aspirations. Her choice to marry Sid is not a compromise but a hopeful leap—an expectation that love may blossom where it currently does not exist.

The film’s visual narrative is as impactful as its storyline. The flicker of a photograph, the significance of a ring, and the subtle nuances in the actors’ expressions all enrich the tale. As Sid’s true emotions emerge—feelings he finds difficult to express—the tension in the story intensifies.

As the story unfolds, we meet Anahita (Ankita Amar), a Hindi-speaking girl from outside Karnataka whose presence casts a long shadow over Sid’s life, complicating his emotions for Radha. The distinction between care and love becomes increasingly blurred, leaving Sid trapped between his past and present.

Key moments in the film arise as Sid grapples with memories of Anahita, feelings that have haunted him for seven long years. The inevitable comparison between Radha and Anahita intensifies as Sid realizes that his yearning may not be for Anahita’s return, but rather for the complete erasure of her memory. This haunting realization pushes Sid to his limits, prompting him to confront his unresolved emotions on a journey to Goa—a quest that symbolizes not just a physical escape, but an emotional reckoning in search of clarity.

Chandrajith skillfully weaves the narrative between past and present, showcasing Sid’s early days as a determined youth and cricketer who stands strong for his college. However, he softens when he meets Anahita at a college festival, perfectly captured in the song ‘Ooh Anahita.’ Their connection sparks love at first sight, as Anahita, born on a leap year and celebrating her birthday on February 29, embodies a disciplined, introverted lifestyle, often seen capturing moments with her Polaroid camera. Her affinity for nature shines through when she tells Sid, “You make me feel uncomfortable,” reflecting her guarded approach to life.

Building a friendship with Anahita takes time, given her nature. When Sid finally gathers the courage to express his love, with a ring tucked away in his pocket, it marks a significant turning point in their relationship.

The performances in the film are consistently impressive, showcasing the talents of Ankita Amar and Vihan, who both bring the director’s vision to life. Mayuri stands out for her portrayal of a modern girl who balances practicality with deep emotions. Additionally, Girija Shettar makes a notable return to the screen in a significant role.

With stunning visuals crafted by cinematographer Srivathsan Selvarajan, along with well-developed characters, Gagan Baderia’s calming background score, and some lovely musical numbers, Chandrajith’s “Ibbani Tabbida Ileyali” feels like a cinematic extension of his insightful blog. While the theme of medical complications has been explored in various ways in cinema, this film distinguishes itself by resonating with the subtle anguish of unexpressed feelings.

“Ibbani Tabbida Ileyali”

Director: Chandrajith Belliappa

Cast: Ankita Amar, Vihan, Mayuri Nataraja, Girija Shettar

Rating: 3/5