‘Kaala’ may not 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).

The release was delayed in the state previously. It was postponed to June 7 and the latest development shows that this is unlikely.

Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) president Sa Ra Govindu said the chamber had received letters from across 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 the CMB. “We called a meeting of producers, distributors and theatre owners for their feedback. They voluntarily decided not to screen the movie in the state,” Govindu said.

Govindu said the fear was that the CMB will take away the rights of Kannadigas over Cauvery water. “Kannadigas are afraid that setting up the CMB will lead to Centre’s de facto control over all Cauvery reservoirs and we also share that concern,” he said.

Roopesh, who had given a petition with the film chamber seeking a “ban” on ‘Kaala’, said it was time Karnataka “stops being a victim and shows some pride”. “We are always patient and give in to their demand. Now, they are demanding water for agriculture when we are struggling here for drinking water. The ban on ‘Kaala’ has nothing to do with Rajini as an actor, whom we all respect. It is his political stance that we oppose,” he said.