Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Mar 3: The Karnataka BJP on Sunday strongly condemned deputy chief minister D K Shivakumar for his criticism of Kannada film artistes over their absence at the International Film Festival inauguration, urging him to shed his "toxic mindset."

Leader of the opposition R Ashoka accused Shivakumar of arrogance, stating that artistes are independent and should not be treated as political subordinates. "Your statement that only those who support Congress will be recognized is unworthy of your position," he said.

Union minister Pralhad Joshi also lashed out at Shivakumar, calling his approach "authoritarian" and warning that threats would not work in Karnataka. He reminded the deputy CM of his past in the film industry, urging him to stop his "display of arrogance."

Meanwhile, producer Umapathy defended Shivakumar, claiming that many artistes were not invited to the event and that his comments were merely a "reminder of responsibilities." BJP leader and actor Jaggesh criticized the event’s mismanagement, stating that invitations were sent too late for artistes to attend.

Reacting to the backlash, Shivakumar stood by his remarks, asserting that artistes had failed to support key state issues, including the Mekedatu agitation. "The festival was for the industry, not for me. If they don’t participate, why should the government organize it?" he questioned.

The controversy erupted after Shivakumar, during the festival’s inauguration on March 1, expressed displeasure over the absence of Kannada film artistes.