Chennai: Kannada movie 'Kantara' is making waves across the country and the film has got rave reviews from critics and audiences alike. The film, which is going strong at the box office, has been dragged into a controversy.
Kannada actor Chetan Kumar has slammed 'Kantara' movie actor Rishab Shetty's remark that 'Bhoota Kola', a spirit worship ritual in coastal Karnataka mentioned in the film, is a part of Hindu Culture.
Earlier, Shetty in an interview had said that the 'Bhoota Kola' is part of Hindu culture and rituals. He said, as per Indian Express, "It is part of Hindu culture and rituals. I am a Hindu and I believe in my religion and customs which nobody can question. What we have said is through the element that is present in Hindu dharma."
However, director Chetan Kumar slammed Rishab Shetty for his statement. Taking to social media, he said, "Glad our Kannada film ‘Kantara’ is making national waves. Director Rishabh Shetty claims Bhootha Kola is ‘Hindu culture’. False. Our Pambada/Nalike/Parawa’s Bahujan traditions predate Vedic-Brahminical Hinduism. We ask that Moolnivasi cultures be shown w/ truth on & off screen."
Kumar also held a press conference on Wednesday and, Chetan Kumar said that Bhootha Kola was part of the Adivasi tradition and it's not related to Brahmanism.
“Do not put Adivasi culture in the column of Hindu religion," he said in the press conference.
The movie throws light into the practice in coastal regions of Dakshin Kannada. The practice, Bhootha Kola is a form of animist worship and they worship them through Bhootha Kola.
Meanwhile, after Kantara's box office success the government has announced a monthly allowance of Rs 2000 to Daiva Narthkas above 60 years of age. The movie has globally bagged Rs 171 crore.