Karnataka Congress MLA Ravikumar Gowda Ganiga has intensified his criticism of actress Rashmika Mandanna, alleging her continued disregard for the Kannada film industry and its community. Despite Mandanna’s denial of claims that she refused to attend the Bengaluru International Film Festival (BIFF), Ganiga remains steadfast in his accusations, asserting that her actions demonstrate a lack of respect for her roots.
The controversy began when Ganiga accused Mandanna of declining multiple invitations to the BIFF, stating that she had dismissed her connections to Karnataka. He claimed that despite a legislator visiting her residence numerous times to extend the invitation, she refused to attend, allegedly saying, “I have my house in Hyderabad, I don’t know where Karnataka is, and I don’t have time.” Ganiga questioned, “Shouldn’t we teach them a lesson?”
In response to these allegations, sources close to Mandanna refuted the claims, labeling them as “completely false” and lacking any truth. They emphasized that the narrative about her refusing to attend the festival was incorrect.
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Unconvinced by her denial, Ganiga challenged the authenticity of her statement, suggesting it was crafted by her public relations team. He insisted that official records would substantiate his claims about the invitation and her subsequent absence. Ganiga emphasized that his criticism was not personal but stemmed from a sense of duty to the Kannada community, questioning Mandanna’s gratitude towards the industry that launched her career.
Ganiga further expressed disappointment over Mandanna’s recent remarks at an event where she identified herself as being from Hyderabad. This statement sparked outrage among pro-Kannada groups, who felt she was disowning her roots. Ganiga underscored that while other actresses from Karnataka have worked in various film industries, Mandanna’s career began in Kannada cinema, and she should acknowledge and respect that foundation.
The situation has drawn attention from political figures, with Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar criticizing Ganiga’s remarks as indicative of “goon culture” within the Congress party. Chandrasekhar emphasized that every citizen, including actresses, has constitutional rights that must be respected.
As the debate continues, it highlights the broader discussion about regional identity, the responsibilities of public figures to their cultural roots, and the boundaries of political critique in the realm of personal choices and professional commitments.