In the backdrop of controversy over Rajinikanth’s film Kaala, which will be globally released on June 7, several fans in the city have made plans to travel to Tamil Nadu and neighbouring States.
The film is caught in a maelstrom of controversy after Mr. Rajinikanth demanded that Cauvery water be released to Tamil Nadu. In retaliation, Kannada groups have demanded that the film be not released in the State.
Travel arrangements
Die-hard Rajini fans, now worried that the film may not be screened, have made travel arrangements to other States to buy tickets for the first day of its release on June 7. Lighting professional Karthik M said he would be part of 15 friends who would be going to Krishnagiri to watch Kaala. “We have already asked our friends there to buy tickets for us. We will be watching the film on the day of the release,” he said.
Another fan Vignesh (name changed on request) from Kengeri is going to Hosur. “It’s sad that films are a casualty in this dispute. It only vitiates the atmosphere and is unhealthy,” he said.
Rajani Santosh, State president, Karnataka Rajinikanth Fans Association, said it had written to the Chief Minister on May 30 seeking his intervention.
“This decision has disappointed lakhs of fans in Karnataka. The government should intervene and allow the film to be released,” the letter stated.
However, bus operators have not seen any unusual spike in demand for tickets to destinations in Tamil Nadu from Bengaluru. K.T. Rajashekar, president of the Private Bus Operators Association, said that as of now they had not seen any increase in demand.
Prakash Raj’s stand
Actor Prakash Raj, who has never shied away from taking a stand on political issues, tweeted on Sunday expressing his dissent over demands to ban the film in Karnataka.
“What’s film #Kaala got to do with Kaveri issue..? why is film fraternity targeted always..? Will Jds/congress government let fringe elements take law into their hands ...like bjp did with #Padmavat ..or ..will you step in to assure common man ..his right for choice.#justasking ..” he tweeted.