In a dramatic turn of events on Thursday, protests over the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee’s (CWRC) decision took an unexpected twist in Mandya, as Tamil superstar Vijay’s film Jana Nayagan became a flashpoint for Kannada activists’ fury. The movie’s posters fluttered to the ground in shreds, a vivid testament to the escalating tension, as screenings across Karnataka faced abrupt halts.
The catalyst for this uproar was the decision made on July 30 to release 3,500 cusecs of precious Cauvery water daily to Tamil Nadu for a fortnight. This move has stoked the flames of discontent, especially among the residents of drought-stricken Mandya district. The protests reached the local Gurushri Cinema, where protestors not only stormed the venue but also demanded an immediate cessation of the film’s screening.
Voices from Mandya were loud and clear. As one passionate protestor appealed, “Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, convey to them that we don’t even have drinking water, let alone water for our livestock. We’re in a desperate plight. Please grant us more time.” A memorandum supporting the farmers’ plight has been formally submitted to the authorities, underscoring the depth of the crisis.
The ruling of the CWMA has sparked a flurry of reactions from the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) and notable figures in the Kannada film world. KFCC president Jayamala affirmed, “Our unwavering support has always been with the farmers. We will persevere as long as our language, people, and resources are at stake. When these are in jeopardy, we stand with the farmers.” Producer Rockline Venkatesh echoed this sentiment, “Whenever the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce makes a decision, all associated groups rally behind it. We firmly support this and all movements impacting the state’s land, water, and language.”
Directed by Vinoth and produced by Venkat K. Narayana under the KVN Productions banner, Jana Nayagan finally hit the screens after a series of delays. Initially set for a January 9 release, the film faced a setback with the CBFC certification and even fell victim to an online leak in April. The film stars Vijay alongside Bobby Deol, Pooja Hegde, and Mamitha Baiju, with supporting roles by Nassar, Prakash Raj, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Narain, and Priyamani. It is a vibrant remake of the Telugu blockbuster Bhagavanth Kesari, released in 2023.