Kannada cinema has given us some memorable action thrillers, and Navagraha (2008) is one such film that still holds a special place among heist movies. Directed by Dinakar Thoogudeepa, this film features Darshan in a never-seen-before role alongside an ensemble cast of actors whose lineage ties back to some of Kannada cinema’s most legendary villains.
With a mix of action, drama, and suspense, Navagraha brings an intriguing story set around one of the most ambitious heists in Indian cinema. The film was a commercial success when it was first released on November 7, 2008, and recently, on November 7, 2024, it got a grand re-release in 100 theaters across Karnataka, proving that its appeal remains intact even after so many years.
Let’s dive into what makes this movie a must-watch!
Plot Summary (No Spoilers!)
The story revolves around Jaggu (Darshan), a mastermind criminal who assembles a team of eight highly skilled thieves. Each member of his crew represents one of the nine celestial bodies (Navagrahas) in Hindu astrology, which also gives the movie its title. Their mission? To steal the highly valuable Ambari idol from the Mysore Palace, a seemingly impossible task due to tight security and high stakes.
As the gang prepares for the heist, tensions rise, betrayals unfold, and unforeseen challenges put their mission at risk. Will they succeed in pulling off one of the most daring robberies in history? That’s what makes Navagraha an edge-of-the-seat thriller!
What’s Good? (Highlights of the Movie)
1. Darshan’s Powerful Performance
Darshan is well-known for his mass action roles, but in Navagraha, he brings a different charm to the character of Jaggu. Playing an anti-hero with shades of gray, he delivers a performance that is both intense and stylish. His screen presence, dialogue delivery, and action sequences are a treat for fans.
2. The Unique Ensemble Cast
One of the biggest highlights of Navagraha is its casting. The film features actors who are the sons of legendary Kannada villains such as Thoogudeepa Shreenivas, Tiger Prabhakar, Sudheer, Lokesh, and more. This concept of bringing together the next generation of villains was fresh and created a lot of buzz.
3. Engaging Storytelling & Direction
Director Dinakar Thoogudeepa does a brilliant job in keeping the narrative gripping. He balances action, drama, and suspense without unnecessary diversions. The screenplay is tight, ensuring that there is never a dull moment.
4. High-Stakes Heist Setup
The movie follows a carefully planned heist, showing detailed planning, secret meetings, and the gang’s interactions. It keeps the audience hooked, wondering whether the plan will work or fail.
5. Cinematography & Action Sequences
The visuals in Navagraha are stylish and well-shot. The heist scenes, especially those inside the Mysore Palace, look grand and realistic. The action sequences are well-choreographed, giving fans the adrenaline rush they expect from a Darshan film.
6. Background Score & Music
The film’s music by V. Harikrishna adds a lot of energy to the storytelling. The background score heightens the suspense, and the songs fit well with the movie’s theme, enhancing the overall experience.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
✔ Fresh Concept – A heist thriller based on astrology is a unique theme.
✔ Strong Lead Performance – Darshan’s presence makes the film engaging.
✔ Action & Thrill – The movie delivers fast-paced action and suspense.
✔ Stylish Cinematography – The visuals and heist setup look grand.
Weaknesses
❌ Few Predictable Moments – Some parts of the movie might feel formulaic.
❌ Lack of Character Depth – While the story is strong, some characters could have had better development.
❌ Limited Screen Time for Supporting Cast – The ensemble cast is impressive, but some actors don’t get enough impactful moments.
Who Should Watch It? (Target Audience)
If you love heist movies, action thrillers, and crime dramas, Navagraha is definitely for you!
✅ Darshan Fans – This is a must-watch if you love his powerful performances.
✅ Action Lovers – The fight sequences and heist planning will keep you entertained.
✅ Thriller Enthusiasts – If you enjoy suspenseful storytelling, you’ll love this one.
Box Office Performance
Navagraha was a commercial success when it was released in 2008. The film had a strong opening and continued to do well in the following weeks. Here’s a breakdown of its box office performance:
Budget & Earnings
| Details | Amount (INR) |
|---|---|
| Budget | ₹4 Crore |
| Worldwide Collection | ₹15 Crore |
Day-Wise Earnings (India & Overseas)
| Day | India (INR Crore) | Overseas (INR Crore) |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | 1.5 | 0.5 |
| Day 2 | 1.7 | 0.6 |
| Day 3 | 2.0 | 0.7 |
| Day 4 | 2.2 | 0.8 |
| Day 5 | 2.5 | 1.0 |
The film performed exceptionally well in Karnataka and had a decent response overseas. Its success at the box office solidified Darshan’s position as one of the top actors in the industry.
Final Verdict: Should You Watch Navagraha?
Absolutely! If you enjoy action-packed thrillers with a gripping storyline and stylish visuals, Navagraha is worth a watch. Even after years, it remains one of Kannada cinema’s best heist films.
🔥 Our Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
So, if you haven’t watched Navagraha yet, go ahead and experience this thrilling ride!
Did you enjoy this review? Let us know your thoughts on Navagraha in the comments! 👇
