Ruthusrava | ಋತುಸ್ರಾವ | The Periods | A Powerful Kannada Short Film by Dr. Vani Sundeep

Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival is proud to present “Ruthusrava | ಋತುಸ್ರಾವ,” a poignant short film based on true events. Directed by Dr. Vani Sundeep, this compelling narrative highlights an often-overlooked topic—early menstruation and the essential role of family support during a young girl’s coming-of-age.

 

The Story Behind Ruthusrava

The film follows the story of a young girl named Dhhriti, who experiences her first period earlier than the typical age range of 13–15 years. Like many young girls, Dhhriti feels fear and confusion during this crucial moment. Caught off guard and unable to reach her mother or sister, Dhhriti turns to her father for guidance. In an unexpected twist that breaks traditional stereotypes, her father steps up without hesitation. He reassures her, offering comfort, support, and practical advice—providing the same nurturing guidance a mother would.

The film closes with a touching message from Dhhriti’s father, emphasizing the importance of understanding the unique challenges young girls face when they experience menstruation earlier than expected. The overarching message is clear: supporting girls during their journey into womanhood is not just a mother’s responsibility but should be a shared duty, particularly for fathers.

 

The Director’s Vision

Dr. Vani Sundeep, the director of Ruthusrava, wanted to create a film that sheds light on the broader societal need to break the stigma surrounding menstruation. The film’s objective is to promote dialogue, awareness, and understanding, especially around the subject of early menstruation. This isn’t a film for entertainment; rather, it’s a social cause meant to drive awareness and empathy in families and society.

In her own words, Dr. Vani Sundeep says:

“Only women addressing women’s issues doesn’t cut it anymore. Everybody needs to talk about various aspects of a girl’s coming of age. Especially a father!”

This quote perfectly encapsulates the film’s theme—highlighting the role of fathers in helping young girls through such crucial phases in life, rather than leaving these discussions to mothers or women alone.

 

The Impact of Early Menstruation

Menstruation is often still considered a taboo subject, despite its biological inevitability. For girls who begin their periods at an earlier age than expected, this event can lead to confusion, fear, and anxiety—compounded by the lack of awareness and conversation around the subject. Many young girls feel awkward and embarrassed about menstruation, particularly if they don’t have access to open dialogue with their family members.

By showcasing Dhhriti’s father as the primary support in the film, Ruthusrava takes a progressive stance on the subject of menstruation. The film encourages all family members—especially men—to break the silence and engage in supportive, understanding conversations with the young girls in their lives.

 

Breaking Taboos and Creating Awareness

One of the key goals of Ruthusrava is to break the societal taboos that surround menstruation, particularly early menstruation. The film aims to educate families, especially fathers, on how to approach this sensitive subject with care, empathy, and knowledge. In many cultures, menstruation is still seen as something “private” or even “shameful.” This perspective only adds to the psychological challenges that young girls like Dhhriti may face when they experience their first period.

The film serves as a reminder that menstruation is a natural biological process, and families need to be prepared to offer emotional and practical support, whether it comes from mothers, fathers, or other family members. By doing so, they create an environment where girls feel safe, understood, and empowered as they transition into womanhood.

 

Cast and Crew of Ruthusrava

The short film is brought to life by a talented cast and crew:

• Director: Dr. Vani Sundeep
• Cast: Dhhriti plays the role of Dhhriti, and Dr. Sundeep Bhagwath plays her father.
• Cinematographer: Kitty Koushik
• Music: Sameer Rao

The combination of powerful storytelling, expert direction, and a dedicated team has resulted in a film that not only tells a story but also drives home an important social message.

 

A Social Cause, Not Just a Story

Unlike most films in the entertainment industry, Ruthusrava was made with a purpose that transcends entertainment. It seeks to create awareness and spark a larger conversation about early menstruation, the role of fathers in their daughters’ lives, and how families can work together to offer support during such critical phases of growth.

This film stands as an important educational tool, encouraging families to foster open, honest conversations about menstruation without the shame or stigma that traditionally surrounds the topic.

 

The Importance of Family Support

The central theme of Ruthusrava is family support—particularly the father’s role in his daughter’s life during significant moments of change. In many cultures, fathers are often left out of conversations about menstruation and other “women’s issues.” This film challenges that norm, presenting an image of a father who steps up when his daughter needs him most. It sends a strong message that fathers are just as responsible for providing emotional and psychological support as mothers, especially in moments that define their daughters’ transition into adulthood.

 

Join the Movement for Menstrual Awareness

Ruthusrava is not just a film—it is a call to action. By raising awareness and initiating important conversations, the film hopes to empower both girls and their families. Menstrual health and education should be a shared responsibility, and through this film, the Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival seeks to foster a more inclusive, supportive, and informed society.

 

Watch Ruthusrava Now

Watch Ruthusrava on the Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival’s YouTube channel. Help spread the message, break the taboos, and be part of a growing conversation on menstrual health and early menstruation awareness.

 

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#MenstrualHealth #SocialAwareness #RuthusravaFilm #BreakingTaboos