Neela (film)
Neela () is a 2001 Indian Kannada drama film directed by T. S. Nagabharana and written by Kotiganahalli Ramaiah. Featuring Gayatri Jayaraman in the lead protagonist role, it also stars Ananth Nag, Shivadhwaj, Jayanthi and Naveen Mayur in key roles. The story is about a nomadic folk singer, Neela, who belongs to the "Neelagararu" tribe. She develops throat cancer and suddenly loses her voice. The story highlights her struggle to survive in her conservative society. "Neela" was screened at the Indian Panorama international festival and won many accolades for the content. The film won the third best film at  the Karnataka State Film Awards and Gayatri Jayaraman won Best Actress Cinema Express Awards. Soundtrack. The music was composed by the renowned composer Vijaya Bhaskar, his last work before his death. The soundtrack consisted of 12 tracks most of which were sung by acclaimed playback singer Vani Jairam.