Protests Against the Release of ‘Baahubali 2’ in Karnataka

Some statements made by actor Sathyaraj nine years ago spell trouble for ‘Baahubali 2’.

Baahubali: The Conclusion seems to have gotten into some uninvited trouble ahead of its release in Karnataka. Multiple pro-Kannada organisations are asking actor Sathyaraj who plays Kattappa in the film to apologise for a few controversial statements he reportedly made nine years ago.

According to Indian Express, the organisations claim that failure in adhering to this demand for an apology will lead to a ban on the release of Baahubali 2 in Karnataka.

Speaking on this, director SS Rajamouli has said that targeting the film because of an actor is wrong and sad. Here’s what SS Rajamouli had to say on the matter:

I worked with Sathyaraj for almost five years and I could have never ever imagined he is a person who could try to hurt someone. Some videos were posted on the internet. When we started inquiring, we learned that whatever comments Mr Sathyaraj made it was nine years back. And after that, about 30 films of his were released in Karnataka. Baahubali 1 released. No one had problems with that. And suddenly, raking up the issue at this point in time is not right.

SS Rajamouli, Director

During a protest organisation in Tamil Nadu regarding a water sharing dispute between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, Sathyaraj had reportedly spoken against pro-Kannada groups and Vatal Nagaraj who is a veteran Kannada activist. Vatal has now been campaigning against the release of the film.

If reports are to be believed, none of the distributors or exhibitors are buying theatrical rights of Baahubali 2 in Karnataka as they fear the losses that may be incurred due to this political controversy. Earlier, Vatal also strongly condemned the release of the Baahubali sequel.

We will not allow any theatre in Karnataka to screen Baahubali. We are not against the film, but against Sathyaraj who plays the character of Kattappa in Bahubali. This man’s remarks crossed all decency limits. He spoke nonsense about Karnataka and Kannadigas. We too staged protests against Tamil Nadu, but not against the people.

Vatal Nagaraj, Acitivist

Slated to release on 28 April, the producers continue to be unsure about the smooth release of Baahubali 2 in Karnataka.

(Source: Indian Express)

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