Parva (film)

Parva is a 1989 Indian Kannada-language historical drama film directed by Sunil Kumar Desai, based on the critically acclaimed novel Parva by S. L. Bhyrappa. The film is a cinematic adaptation of the novel's retelling of the epic Mahabharata from a philosophical and humanistic perspective, focusing on the individual characters and their motivations rather than the traditional divine interpretations.

The film explores the complexities of human relationships, societal structures, and the moral dilemmas faced by the major characters within the Mahabharata narrative. It delves into the psychological depths of figures like Kunti, Karna, Krishna, and Arjuna, presenting them as individuals grappling with their destinies and choices within the context of a war-torn era.

While the film garnered critical acclaim for its direction, screenplay, and performances, it was also noted for its length and its departure from the more commonly depicted mythological presentations of the Mahabharata. It is considered a significant contribution to Kannada cinema and an important adaptation of Bhyrappa's literary work.