Kattappa effect: Karnataka distributors, theatre owners staring at Rs 50 crore loss?
- With 14 days left for the release of Baahubai-2, there is no clarity if the movie will release in Karnataka
- Pro-Kannada groups have said that the movie can release only if Sathyaraj tenders an apology
- Sathyaraj (Kattappa) had made anti-Karnataka statements last year during Cauvery agitation
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"In Bengaluru alone, over 15 single screen theatres run Telugu films. Last time, many of the theatres made good business as there was a huge crowd and people are eagerly waiting for the release of the sequel. But there less chances of the sequel getting released as pro-Kannada organisations have threatened against the release of the film against anti-Karnataka remarks during the Cauvery agitations by Tamil actor Sathyaraj, who plays Kattappa in the movie Baahubali. No producer or exhibitor has come forward to book for Baahubali-2 so far," said Bhoopal Reddy, a member of Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce and owner of Radhakrishna Theatre.
Echoing similar sentiments to Reddy, another owner-cum-film exhibitor who did not wish to be named said, that the single screen theatres make some business when mega budget films hit the screen. “If Baahubali- 2 is not screened, a loss of at least Rs 60 crore will be incurred. Besides, the loss for not screening, the theatres may also suffer damage if agitators pelt stones, he added.
Lahari Velu, Film Producer, Distributor and Founder of Lahari Recordings was, however, hopeful of the commotion getting cleared in a few days. “Any situation will not affect the screening of Kannada films.” Speaking on Sathyaraj controversy, he said, “The producers and distributors will overcome the challenge and will find a solution. I was one among the exhibitors of the film but did not work out due to negotiations. Still, there are 14 days left, and anything can happen," he said.
Film Producers Association President, Munirathna Naidu who is well aware of the controversy opined, “It is not about the loss of money but the honour.”
"Sathyaraj had made negative remarks on 'Cauvery river water sharing' during the agitation last year. An apology to Kannadigas will ease the tension. We will not allow his films to be screened if he fails to tender an apology," said Naidu.
