Rajinikanth’s ‘Kaala’ unlikely to be screened in state

The planned release of Rajinikanth’s movie ‘Kaala’ on June 7 is not likely to happen in the state with producers and distributors deciding not to screen it in light of the star actor’s remarks on the issue of Cauvery Management Board (CMB).

Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) president Sa Ra Govindu said the chamber had received letters from across the Karnataka seeking a ban on the movie. “There is a lot of pressure from people across the state. However, we can’t ban the movie though we support the cause,” he said.

He said many activists were upset that Rajinikanth had taken part in the bandh protesting the Centre’s delay in setting up CMB. “We called a meeting of producers, distributors and theatre owners for their feedback. They voluntarily decided not to screen the movie,” Govindu said.

Govindu said the fear was that the CMB will take away the rights of Kannadigas for Cauvery water.

Roopesh, who had given a petition to the film chamber seeking ‘ban’ on ‘Kaala,’ said it was time Karnataka “stops being a victim and shows some pride”.