Tamil film producer Kannan Ravi, who is backing director Sam Rodrigues's upcoming action comedy 'Bang Bang' starring Prabhu Deva and Vadivelu, on Saturday, 7 November hit back sharply at critics who had been circulating rumours linking him to benami political dealings. Speaking at an event organised by the film's unit in Chennai, Ravi mounted a spirited public defence of his financial record and dared anyone to prove the allegations for a reward of ₹1 crore.

The ₹1 Crore Challenge

Ravi was unequivocal in his rebuttal. 'I am making an open statement. If anyone can show that I have been a benami for any politician for even one lakh, I will give them a crore as reward. If you have the courage, come (and show proof), I am ready. (You are) always welcome,' he said at the event.

The Dubai-based businessman, who reportedly owns 15 companies without a single business partner, framed the challenge around transparency. 'I have white money and I have paid my taxes. If you come and see my office desk, you will find only a law book,' he said, adding that he had brought his funds to India 'in an open and transparent manner.'

From Office Boy to 15 Companies: Ravi's Story

The producer used the occasion to recount his personal journey. 'I lost my dad when I was seven. I was born rich but lost all my fortune. To rise back, I went to a foreign land. I had modest beginnings, starting from being an office boy. From that point to now growing to owning 15 companies, without having a single partner, I have emerged victorious,' he said. His remarks appear designed to counter insinuations that his wealth had political backing.

Son's Wedding in India and the NRI Argument

Ravi also addressed criticism over his son's recent wedding, which he had deliberately held in India. He cited Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call to NRIs to invest in India as his motivation. 'The money I spend will go to Indians instead of it going to foreigners. If I had chosen, I could have conducted the wedding in an even grander fashion in Dubai. Instead I held my son's wedding here,' he said.

He further pushed back against criticism of dancing at the event. 'They say I was seen dancing in the wedding. If I don't dance in my son's wedding, where will I go and dance?' he asked.

Appeal for Respect Toward NRIs

Ravi broadened his remarks into an appeal on behalf of the broader NRI community. 'About 25 per cent of the country's investments come from them. What rights have you given them? You want foreign investments. You want NRIs to come but when they come, why do you insult them? Welcome them,' he said. He also said he had advised his children to never acquire a foreign passport and to always identify as Indian and Tamil.

About 'Bang Bang'

The controversy surrounds one of Tamil cinema's more anticipated productions. 'Bang Bang', directed by Sam Rodrigues, pairs comedy legend Vadivelu with veteran actor-choreographer Prabhu Deva in what is being described as an action comedy. No release date has been officially confirmed as yet. The event at which Ravi spoke was organised by the film's production unit, suggesting promotional activities are under way.