Congress MLA Criticizes Rashmika Mandanna Amid Kannada Film Industry Controversy

Bengaluru: Congress MLA Ravikumar Gowda Ganiga, a staunch supporter of Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, has strongly criticized actress Rashmika Mandanna, accusing her of arrogance and disregard for the Kannada film industry.

The controversy arose following Shivakumar’s remarks against Kannada film artistes who failed to attend the inauguration of the Bengaluru International Film Festival. Addressing reporters, Ganiga expressed his disappointment, particularly targeting Rashmika Mandanna, who began her career with the Kannada film Kirik Party.

Rashmika Mandanna’s Alleged Disregard for Karnataka

Ganiga stated that Rashmika was invited to last year’s film festival but refused to attend, allegedly claiming she resides in Hyderabad and does not have time for the event. According to him, despite a Congress MLA personally visiting her residence to request her participation, she declined.

“Rashmika, who built her career through Kannada cinema, should be taught a lesson for her arrogance,” he asserted. Ganiga further suggested that the government reconsider providing subsidies to the film industry if such attitudes persist.

Kannada Film Chambers of Commerce Also Targeted

Ganiga also lashed out at Narasimhulu, President of the Kannada Film Chambers of Commerce, labeling him as someone from Andhra Pradesh who has profited from Karnataka’s industry and real estate sector. He accused non-Kannada producers of showing disrespect toward Deputy CM Shivakumar.

“These producers made money here and now criticize us. Should they be taught a lesson or simply ignored?” he questioned, warning the Film Chamber’s President to remain silent.

Why Were Kannada Artistes Absent from the Film Festival?

The Congress MLA criticized the film industry for prioritizing Celebrity Cricket League (CCL) matches over the festival, arguing that the industry body should have enforced attendance at the event.

“They have the time for cricket but not for Karnataka’s film festival. This is unacceptable,” he remarked.

BJP Hits Back at Congress and Deputy CM Shivakumar

Meanwhile, the Karnataka BJP has slammed Deputy CM Shivakumar for his comments against Kannada film artistes, accusing him of displaying arrogance.

Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka criticized the Congress leader, stating, “Artistes do not belong to any political party. They have the freedom to choose where they want to go. Shivakumar’s mindset suggests that MLAs must bow down to him if they want grants, which is unacceptable.”

This controversy has further widened the rift between the government and the Kannada film industry, raising concerns about political interference in cinema