# The Rite, a Passion (2002)

- **Genres:** Drama
- **Runtime:** 89 minutes
- **Certificate:** unrated
- **Director:** K.N.T. Sastry
- **Cast:** Jaya Sheela, Brahmaji, Tanikella Bharani, Prasad Babu, Annapoorna, Amanchi Venkata Subrahmanyam
- **Rating:** 7.3/10 (3 votes)
- **Where to watch:** NFDC Amazon Channel
- **Page:** https://teluguclips.com/m/the-rite-a-passion-211909

A subtle interplay between clashing ideologies: that of traditional religious values versus modern youth drawn towards extremism. Events overtake Subbaiah Sastry, a highly respected vedic and scholar in his prime now scraping out a meagre existence as a corpse carrier. He endures the contempt of his Hyderabad neighbours due to his acceptance of Tiladaanam, a lowly Brahammic rite involving the acceptance of the sins of the dead in exchange for coins and the food of the deceased. His son, Raghuram, has become a terrorist hunted by the police, at odds with his father. A stark contrast is provided between an outdated system and as yet undefined future. - Melbourne International Film Festival