In a fresh turn of events in the midst of growing controversy over Karnataka Congress MLA Ravi Kumar Gowda Ganiga’s comments on actress Rashmika Mandanna, the politician has attempted to make amends for his previous comments.
The comments, which were widely criticized, caused great alarm especially among the Kodava community, with people calling for additional security for the actress.
Amends from the MLA
Ravi Kumar had earlier said that Rashmika “needs to be taught a lesson” for not attending a state function. In an attempt to explain himself, he said to ANI, “When I said teach her a lesson, I meant life lessons and not to attack her. My intention was to remind her not to forget the roots from which she has grown.”
He insisted that his remarks were meant to remind the actor of the need to respect the state that patronized her career. “Rashmika Mandanna did not attend our state program. It’s important to realize that she grew up enjoying state cuisine and should stand up for it,” he said.
Even in his defense, the remarks have already generated tremendous outrage, particularly given Rashmika’s purported refusal to turn up for an earlier event in Karnataka. The MLA was irritated by her refusing an invitation to the International Film Festival in the state, in which he had pointed out that she had earlier said, “I don’t know where Karnataka is, and I don’t have time.”
Kodava National Council Responds
In response to the MLA’s comments, the Kodava National Council (KNC)—in which Rashmika is a member—issued strong objections on her safety. The Council denigrated the statement, urging the authorities to secure the actor’s safety in case of harassment and threats.
NU Nachappa, the president of the KNC, was dismayed at the development. He pointed out that Rashmika, a member of the indigenous Kodava tribe, gained fame through her perseverance in the industry. Nachappa pointed out, “Some people, with no knowledge of art criticism, have gone to the extent of harassing and targeting the actress.” The Kodava people have sought assurances from both Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Karnataka State Home Minister G Parameshwar for the safety of Rashmika Mandanna.
A written protest letter has been given by the community, condemning the threats issued against the actress and requesting urgent action. The letter asserted that Mandanna, as much as anybody else, is entitled to take her own decisions without undue pressure.
Rashmika’s Continuing Success
On the professional front, Rashmika Mandanna is doing well, having recently featured in hit movies like Pushpa 2: The Rule and Chhaava. In the near future, she will be seen in a number of big-budget films, among them Sikandar, featuring Bollywood megastar Salman Khan, Kubera with actor Dhanush, and Thama, starring Ayushmann Khurrana.
