Filmfolk condemn Karnataka's parochial attitude

Chennai, Apr 4 (UNI) The Tamil Film industry, popularly referred to as Kollywood, today observed a day's fast codemning the attack on theatres in Karnataka screening Tamil films following an uproar over the implementation of Hogenakkal Drinking Water Project in Tamil Nadu.

Superstar Rajnikant, who delivered an emotion choked appeal not to politicise the issue to leaders of both the states, Kamal Haasan and actor-politicians Saratkumar and Vijaykant, super stars of this generation Vijay and Surya, led the fast.

They passed a resolution to throw their lot behind Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi's efforts to fight for the state's rights.

With a large number of film fans especially youth turning up at the venue to have a glimpse of their favourite stars and lend support, the stir began at 0800 hrs in the morning near the state guest house at Chepauk here.

Representatives of Tamil Film Producers Council (TFPC), Film Employees Federation of South India and a host of other Associations also participated.

Work pertaining to the industry, including shooting on locations, were suspended today.

Those shooting in other places and abroad cancelled their schedule to take part in the protest.

Theatres in the city also cancelled noon and matinee shows to express solidarity with the film industry's protest.

UNI SNR-VV RL PM1855