Actor Dulquer Salmaan’s upcoming period drama Kaantha has run into legal trouble just days before its scheduled theatrical release on November 14. The grandson of legendary Tamil actor and musician Thyagaraja Bhagavathar has approached a Chennai court seeking to halt the film’s release, alleging that it portrays his grandfather in a defamatory light.
Petitioner alleges defamatory portrayal
According to a report by Live Law, the petitioner B. Thiagarajan, who is Bhagavathar’s grandson, claimed that the film portrays the late actor as “a man of loose morals” who lived in poverty and blindness toward the end of his life. Thiagarajan stated that such a depiction is “false and degrading” and tarnishes the image of Bhagavathar, who, according to him, remained a respected figure until his death in 1959.
He further argued that the filmmakers did not seek permission or consent from the legal heirs of Bhagavathar before allegedly basing elements of their film on his life. The petition seeks a permanent injunction on the release, distribution, and streaming of Kaantha, citing defamation and violation of personal rights.
Filmmakers deny any real-life connection
While the film’s production team has not released an official statement in response to the court petition, Dulquer Salmaan has previously clarified in interviews that Kaantha is “entirely fictional” and “not inspired by any real-life personality.”
The film, directed by Selvamani Selvaraj, is co-produced by Dulquer Salmaan and Rana Daggubati under their respective banners. It also features Samuthirakani and Bhagyashri Borse in key roles. The period drama is set in the early 20th century and is said to revolve around themes of ambition, morality, and redemption.
Possible impact on release schedule
The court is expected to hear the matter in the coming days. If the injunction is granted, Kaantha’s release could face delays, impacting its promotional schedule and theatre bookings. The film had been generating significant buzz for its elaborate production design and Dulquer’s performance in a rugged, vintage avatar.
Trade analysts suggest that any delay could affect the film’s box office prospects, especially as it was scheduled to release during a competitive festive weekend.
Not Dulquer’s first legal controversy
This is not the first time Dulquer Salmaan has encountered legal issues over his film’s subject matter. In 2022, his crime drama Kurup, based on the real-life fugitive Sukumara Kurup, faced similar objections. A public interest litigation (PIL) had alleged that the film exposed the identity of one of India’s most wanted criminals. However, Kurup eventually cleared all hurdles and went on to become a major box office success.
Conclusion
With the court yet to decide on the petition, the fate of Kaantha hangs in balance. While fans await an official response from the makers, industry insiders believe the controversy could either derail the film’s release or inadvertently boost its publicity ahead of opening day.