Vijay Devarakonda’s movie Kingdom faces controversy in Tamil Nadu; the state government undertakes to provide police protection to theatres amid protests over alleged depiction of Sri Lankan Tamils.
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TAMIL NADU: The recently released Telugu film Kingdom, starring Vijay Devarakonda and directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri, is caught in the eye of a political and cultural storm in Tamil Nadu. Despite critical claims and a roaring success at the box office, the film is facing stiff resistance from Tamil nationalist groups over its alleged misrepresentation of Sri Lankan Tamils.
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What is the Controversy?
Kingdom, produced by Sithara Entertainments, tells the story of a gritty underdog battling powerful enemies. However, Tamil outfits have objected to the portrayal of the primary antagonist, reportedly a Sri Lankan Tamil named Murugan. Pro-Tamil group Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK), led by Seeman, claims this depiction defames the Tamil community and distorts historical and cultural sensitivities.
Protests erupted across Tamil Nadu, with NTK cadres disrupting screenings in several locations. Placards, slogans, and even sit-ins near theatres have raised concerns about whether the movie can continue its theatrical run peacefully in the state.
Madras High Court
Amid the growing tensions, M/s SSI Production, associated with the film’s distribution, filed a petition seeking protection for theatres screening Kingdom. The case was heard by Justice D. Bharatha Chakravarthy, who addressed the matter with clarity and balance.
The Tamil Nadu Police, through the government advocate, assured the court that adequate protection would be provided wherever necessary. The court took this assurance on record and emphasized a crucial constitutional principle,
“Once a film is certified by the censor board, no individual or organization has the right to obstruct its lawful exhibition.”
The court further clarified that while dissent is a democratic right, it must be expressed lawfully. Justice Chakravarthy stated that Seeman and NTK are free to protest, but only after securing due permission from the police, and without disrupting public order or infringing upon the rights of others.
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Interestingly, despite the backlash, Kingdom has already grossed over Rs 75 crore globally within just one week of release. Audiences across the country have praised Vijay Devarakonda’s performance and Tinnanuri’s direction.
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