Kodava Community In Karnataka Slams Akshay Kumar's Sky Force: Here's What Sparked The Controversy
On the portrayal of Kodava Community in Sky Force, a social media influencer pointed out that altering the lineage of a historical figure, especially one from a minority community, was unacceptable.
The Akshay Kumar-starrer 'Sky Force', a film inspired by India's first airstrike during the 1965 war with Pakistan, has come under fire from the Kodava community in Karnataka. The controversy stems from the alleged misrepresentation of Squadron Leader Ajjamada Boppayya Devayya, a war hero believed to have inspired the film's storyline.
Tanya Appachu Kaul, a lawyer and social media influencer from the Kodava community, sparked the debate with a viral video questioning the filmmakers’ intentions. She criticised the portrayal of Squadron Leader Devayya in the film, accusing the creators of inaccurately depicting his identity.
In her Instagram story, Tanya stated, “The makers of Sky Force, if you intended to make a movie about a real person, you should have kept it real. The movie is based on India’s retaliatory attack in 1965 on the Sargodha Air Base, inspired by the true story of Squadron Leader Ajjamada Devayya.” She emphasised that altering the lineage of a historical figure, especially one from a minority community, was unacceptable, as per a report on India Today.
Taking to X, another social media user said, "Yes based on a" True story" where you didn't show Squadron Leader Ajjamada Boppayya Devayya as Kodava but as a Tamilian. You changed his whole ethinicty & lineage,come on."
Yes based on a" True story" where you didn't show Squadron Leader Ajjamada Boppayya Devayya as Kodava but as a Tamilian. You changed his whole ethinicty & lineage,come on https://t.co/CHI2VwgIhQ
— .... (@Mrsolivegreen) January 24, 2025
The Kodava community, native to Coorg (now Kodagu) in Karnataka, is known for its distinct warrior heritage. The community takes immense pride in its lineage and contributions to India’s armed forces.
Despite the controversy, 'Sky Force' has received critical acclaim. A review by ABP Live praised the film, stating, “Sky Force is not just another war movie; it goes beyond the Indo-Pak war, capturing the courage and tactical brilliance of our soldiers.” The performances of Akshay Kumar and Veer Pahariya have also garnered appreciation.
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