By V.S. Rajapur

Bangalore, Feb 10 (IANS) Legendary Kannada actor Vishnuvardhan's 200th film "Aaptha Rakshaka" is scheduled to hit theatres Feb 12 on the occasion of Maha Shivaratri festival. After "School Master", this is the second film of the late actor releasing after his death.

Produced by Krishna Prajwal and directed by P. Vasu, "Aaptha Rakshaka" is being released amidst huge expectations. This will be the last film of Vishnuvardhan who ruled the Kannada film industry for more than 37 years. He died of a heart attack Dec 30 last year.

"His performance has reached the highest peak in the film. He showed tremendous commitment in essaying the role which has many shades," said Vasu.

"In the film, he also plays a King in the flashback sequences. He had to change his voice in three different get ups for the film. For one particular sequence we needed a screechy voice and he tied a towel around his neck while dubbing.

"The dubbing work was done when he was sick and taking treatment. But he came and finished his work. Even though he had some pain in his legs, he stood behind the mike and delivered perfect voice," said Vasu.

Producer Prajwal says he never felt that Vishnuvardhan is dead.

"I always feel he is here guiding and blessing all of us. The film has many dialogues which can be interpreted differently now. The dialogues sounds as if they are related to his personal life, his close relationship with co-artists, his love for the Kannada language and his relationship with his fans," he said.