Bengaluru: Filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli, known for Bahubaali fame, has invited the wrath of the Karnataka Chalanachitra Academy and its Chairman, Dr S.V. Rajendra Singh Babu. The director, who made loud proclamations of his Raichur roots to gain the support of Kannadigas as controversy erupted around Bahubali, turned down a chance to attend the Bengaluru International Film Festival this year. He declined citing prior engagements, which Dr Babu angrily calls an insult to people and CM Siddaramaiah, who heads the event.
Babu said the present venue (PVR cinemas, Orion Mall) may not be available for the next edition of BIFFES. “They (in-charge of the venue) have complained about our demands with regard to various issues. Reserving screens exclusively for the festival, for an entire week has also been a challenge. Commercial films that release during this time face the heat because fewer screens are available. Hence they are unlikely to host the festival next year,” said Babu.
He also expressed his dissatisfaction over some of the actors and filmmakers, who, despite having received special invitations to the festival, gave it a miss anyway. As for Mr. Rajamouli, he said the festival is a week-long affair, he could have at least dropped in for a few hours and interacted with cinema lovers here in Bengaluru.It is an insult to Kannadigas in general, apart from being an insult to the state government and the Chief Minister.
However, the audience turnout is cause for celebration. Babu expressed his pride over the rush, saying the demand for passes is a reflection of the event’s success. The best movies are being screened and top class film personalities from across the globe are in attendance for interactive sessions and master classes.
He also defended the decision to give renowned filmmaker Mani Ratnam with a lifetime achievement award. The state government already has several lifetime achievement awards for people from the state. In an international film festival, it is customary to grant the award to people outside the state’s own fraternity. “This is how things work across the globe.” He signs off saying that chances of issuing daily passes remain low, at least until Monday.
