Actor Vishal, President of Tamil Film Producers' Council, has come out in support of Superstar Rajinikanth, urging the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce to resolve the issue surrounding the release of Kaala. He tweeted that Rajinikanth has only shown his responsibility and has exercised his freedom of speech. Vishal added that the ban was uncalled for.
Wat Rajini sir spoke bout Cauvery issue is called responsibility n freedom of https://t.co/LHXXpG78C3 cn they stop #kaala release n Karnataka in retaliation.i sincerely hope the Karnataka film chamber and fellow brothers resolve this issue.we all r Indians https://t.co/VdsL1fQOXw
— Vishal (@VishalKOfficial) May 30, 2018
The release of Rajinikanth’s most awaited film Kaala is facing a hitch in Karnataka with the Confederation of Pro-Kannada Organisations calling for the film’s ban in the state.
The reason for this is Rajinikanth’s comments on the Cauvery water sharing dispute between the two states.
Rajinikanth was caught in a similar spot in 2008 before the release of his film Kuselan. Participating in the hunger strike for the Hoggenakal water sharing dispute called for by the Nadigar Sangam, an aggressive Rajini made strong remarks against the ruling class in Karnataka. His “kick them” comment did not sit well with the Kannadigas who were up in arms against the actor, demanding an apology.
Days after his comments, however, the actor was made to issue an apology to appease the fringe groups who threatened to disrupt the release of Kuselan in Karnataka. Rajini said, “It was a mistake. I have learnt a big lesson. What's important is that the mistake is not repeated. I will be careful while speaking in future and see that I don't hurt anybody.” Since then, Rajinikanth has remained largely reticent – choosing to remain silent even when Tamil Nadu erupted in protests over various issues.
With his political entry, however, the tables have turned. His recent comments, in support of Tamil Nadu, for the setting up of the Cauvery Management Board have not gone down well with many in Karnataka.
The Confederation of Pro-Kannada Organisations has called for a ban on Rajinikanth's much awaited flick. Speaking to TNM, Secretary of KFCC Umesh Banakar said that distributors and exhibitors had approached the Film Chamber on Tuesday, stating that they do not want to screen Kaala in the state.
Kaala is Rajinikanth’s second collaboration with director Pa Ranjith and was initially slated for release on April 27. Following TFPC strike that recently ended, the film was pushed to June 7.