Bengaluru: Kannada film industry is up in arms against the release of Tamil film dubbed in Kannada. Kannada activists, led by Jaggesh and Vatal Nagaraj known for opposing dominance of other language films in Karnataka, are gearing up to intensify agitation against the release of dubbed versions of other language films in Karnataka.
Speaking with Newskarnataka, actor-cum-politician Jaggesh has said the dubbed versions of other languages films would deprive the livelihood of around 600 workers, technicians and junior artistes who depend on Kannada film industry for survival. “Kannada film industry is already on the verge of disintegration due to stiff competition from other language films. It will be a death knell to Kannada film industry if we allow the release of dubbed versions of other language films,’’ Jaggesh explains.
Jaggesh demanded the state government to promulgate an ordinance to ban the release of dubbed versions of other language films in Karnataka. “The Governments of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have promulgated ordinances to legalise Jallikattu and Kambala in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The Supreme Court has banned these traditional sports but the respective state governments had promulgated ordinances and also passed Bills in the respective State Assemblies. I want Karnataka government to come to the rescue of Kannada film industry by promulgating an ordinance and passing a bill in the Assembly banning the release of dubbed versions of other language films in the state,’’ Jaggesh said.
When asked about his threat to set theatres that screen dubbed versions of other language films afire, Jaggesh has clarified that he never made such announcement. “I said that people of Karnataka will burn the theatres that screen dubbed versions of other language films. I never said that theatres screening dubbed versions of other language films will be set on fire. I know some vested interests are trying to file a case against me. I know the law. I also have Supreme Court advocates. I know how to fight such cases,’’ he explains.
It may be recalled a media conference was held on Wednesday evening at the Press Club by Kannada Chaluvali activist Vatal Nagaraj. The meet was attended by Kannada actors Jaggesh, director MS Ramesh and character artiste Rangayana Raghu, who have expressed their opposition to release of dubbed films in Kannada.
The dubbed version of Tamil film Satyadev IPS, in which Ajith had played the lead role, is set to release in 60 theatres in Karnataka on March 3.
The faction which supports dubbing is of the opinion that people will be able to watch and understand the movies of different languages.
Those opposing dubbing say that it will hit the Kannada film industry. Manny workers including technicians, actors and producers will be affected by the move. It is the question of daily life for them, said some actors.
The Competition Commission of India has imposed a penalty on Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce and others for preventing the release of Hindi film Raavan in 2010.
