Congress MLA Critiques Rashmika Mandanna's Attitude

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Congress MLA Ravikumar Gowda Ganiga criticizes Rashmika Mandanna.
- Alleges her arrogance towards the Kannada film industry.
- Calls for a rethink on film subsidies.
- Deputy CM Shivakumar's remarks spark controversy.
- BJP criticizes Shivakumar's approach towards artists.
Bengaluru, March 3 (NationPress) Congress MLA Ravikumar Gowda Ganiga, a devoted ally of Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, has lambasted film actress Rashmika Mandanna for purportedly exhibiting arrogance and a lack of respect for the Kannada film industry.
During a press briefing in Bengaluru, he voiced his concerns in response to the controversy sparked by Deputy CM Shivakumar's remarks directed at Kannada film artists who were absent from the inauguration of the international film festival in Bengaluru.
Ganiga commented, "Rashmika Mandanna made her entry into the film industry with the Kannada film 'Kirik Party'. She was invited last year to the international film festival. However, Rashmika stated that she resides in Hyderabad and is unaware of Karnataka's whereabouts. Furthermore, she mentioned that she lacks time to attend the film festival."
"One of our (Congress) MLAs visited her (Rashmika Mandanna's) residence personally and urged her multiple times to participate in the fest. Nevertheless, Rashmika, who owes her career to Kannada films, displays such arrogance. Shouldn't individuals like her be taught a lesson?" he added.
According to the Congress MLA, the film industry should refrain from responding.
"I will send a letter to CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar suggesting a reconsideration of subsidies for films," he mentioned.
Narasimhulu, the President of Kannada Film Chambers of Commerce, who hails from neighboring Andhra Pradesh, stated that Shivakumar's remarks were filled with arrogance.
"Producers from Andhra Pradesh, who have profited here and invested that wealth into real estate in Karnataka, now disrespect our Deputy CM Shivakumar," Ganiga remarked.
"The position he holds in the Kannada Film Chambers of Commerce is more than sufficient. They have come from neighboring states, made a few films, and now criticize us. Should they be taught a lesson or left unchecked?" he questioned, directing his ire at Kannada film artists.
"Why did the film industry choose to boycott the international film festival? They permit film artists to participate in Celebrity Cricket League (CCL) matches. The industry body should have insisted they cease cricket matches and attend the film festival. Don't they have the capability?" Ganiga queried.
"I urge the President of Kannada Film Chambers of Commerce, Narasimhulu, to remain silent. This is a warning. It is the last warning from the Kannada people to him," the Congress MLA asserted.
On March 1, during the inauguration of the International Film Festival in Bengaluru, Deputy CM Shivakumar expressed his dissatisfaction with the absence of Kannada film artists.
The Karnataka BJP criticized Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar for targeting Kannada film artists over their absence at the International Film Festival's inauguration, urging him to abandon his "toxic mindset".
Leader of the Opposition and BJP member, R. Ashoka, stated: "Step away from the toxic mindset that everyone in society must bow to you and act as your subordinates. Artists are free individuals. They have the right to engage with whom they choose or refrain from doing so. If you seek grants, MLAs must comply and bow down—this was the arrogance exhibited by Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar. He has now openly threatened Kannada film artists on a public platform."