A Unique Initiative by the Locals of Vengurla, Four Back-to-Back Houseful Shows of Kurla to Vengurla in an Auditorium!
The much-acclaimed Marathi film “Kurla to Vengurla,” which beautifully portrays the bond between soil and soul, was released on 19th September and has been winning hearts ever since. Born out of the people’s movement Spandan Parivar, this film has received tremendous appreciation from audiences, critics, and dignitaries alike.
Veteran actor Sayaji Shinde praised the film, calling it “a true representative of Maharashtra on the global stage,” while acclaimed filmmaker Sai Paranjpye described it as “a shining coin amidst the cluttered world of art.” Soon after, social media was abuzz with glowing reviews and heartfelt posts about the film.
Just as word-of-mouth popularity began driving the movie’s success, the arrival of South Indian blockbuster Kantara pushed “Kurla to Vengurla” out of most theatres. Today, it continues to screen only at MovieTime Hub in Goregaon, where every single show runs houseful — a testament to the film’s growing fan base.
The issue of Marathi films being sidelined in favour of Bollywood and South Indian releases is nothing new. While debates and discussions happen often, concrete action rarely follows. “Kurla to Vengurla” too faced the same challenge — despite its quality, emotional depth, and audience love, it struggled for screens without any corporate or wealthy backing.
However, the people of Vengurla took matters into their own hands. With no local theatres available, they decided to screen the film at the Madhusudan Kalelkar Auditorium. What followed was extraordinary — the first two shows went houseful instantly, and due to overwhelming demand, the producers had to add two more shows. Within minutes, all four shows were sold out! The audience quite literally embraced the film with love and pride.
The story of “Kurla to Vengurla” explores themes like the struggles of finding suitable marriage matches and the fascination with city life — told through humour, warmth, and a touch of introspection. It’s entertaining yet thought-provoking, offering a fitting reply to those who claim Marathi cinema isn’t thriving. Writer Amarjeet Amle and director Vijay Kalamkar have given a first-class cinematic response through this delightful film.
Starring #VaibhavMangle, #SunilTawde, #VeenaJamkar, #PralhadKudtarakar, #SainketKamat, and #SwanandiTikekar, the film boasts a powerful ensemble and genuine storytelling.
Now, organizations like Global Konkan, Marathi Ekikaran Samiti, and Shivswaraajya Marathi Pheriwala Sanghatana have come forward to support the film, ensuring it reaches a wider audience.
It’s time for Maharashtra’s policymakers too to stand behind “Kurla to Vengurla” — a truly authentic film rooted in the soil and spirit of Maharashtra. This is the moment, and this is the time.
By Keerti Kadam

