Upendra's Basavanna Controversy Becomes Political Issue (video)

Upendra once again has come under criticism from religious group. The Real Star's latest movie Basavanna has landed in trouble over the title of the movie. Not only religious group but this time political parties have jumped their guns over the movie. The title Basavanna, as we all know, is the popular name of a social reformer from Karnataka. The latest posters of the movie show Upendra in red-colour dhoti with the sacred thread (Janivara in Kannada) which ran from left shoulder to waist, along with rudraksha beads, vibhuti and a sword. This has made people to raise objection over the title. Former Chief Minister BS Yeddurappa has said that it is an insult to Basavanna. It has hurt the sentiments of Lingayat community. He demanded the government to intervene and resolve the issue. He also demanded a debate over the controversy in the Karnataka assembly. Before BS Yeddurappa, it was ex-minister Govinda Karajola, who raised the issue on the floors of the assembly.

How Big The Issue Is! 

 Govinda Karajola explained to the assembly that how big the issue is and what it has done to the community. He was later backed by sizeable number of leaders from Lingayat community.

The Political Debate Today 

Bowing down to their demands, Speaker Kaagodu Thimmappa gave permission to debate for 30 minutes in the assembly under Rule 69. The issue will be debated today (July 18).

Who'll Have The Last Laugh? 

 It is probably for the first time where a Kannada movie is being debated in the assembly. Will Upendra get justice, or politicians have the last laugh? Only time can answer. But Uppi will be hoping to get support from MLAs - Ambareesh, Umashree, HD Kumaraswamy, Madhu Bangarappa, CP Yogeshwar, Munirathna and Ashok Kheny, who have film connection.

Uppi Speaks

  On the other end, Upendra came out and said, "I would like to say one thing. I would ask the director to change the title if the film hurts at least one person. The movie has nothing to do with Basavanna."

Why Only Uppi Movies? 

 He adds, "Earlier, many have done movies with mythical names but my movie Katariveera Surasundarangi was singled out." Meanwhile, religious leaders from the community have demanded the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce to scrap the title.

 

Ragini Dwivedi 

Basavanna also stars Ragini Dwivedi. It is directed by Srinivasa Raju of Dandupalya fame and it is an action film revolving around rowdyism.