Rashmika Mandanna Slammed by Congress MLA For Skipping Bengaluru Film Festival

Congress MLA Ravi Ganiga has criticised South actress Rashmika Mandanna for allegedly refusing to attend the Bengaluru International Film Festival. He also emphasized the need to "teach her a lesson" for disregarding the event.

Ravi Ganiga Calls Out Rashmika Mandanna

Speaking to the media at Vidhana Soudha on March 3, MLA Ravi Ganiga revealed that Rashmika has repeatedly declined invitations to the festival. "Rashmika Mandanna, who began her career in Karnataka with the Kannada film Kirik Party, refused to attend the Bengaluru International Film Festival (BIFF) last year when invited," he said.

He further alleged, "She said, 'I have my house in Hyderabad, I don't know where Karnataka is, and I don't have time.' One of our legislators visited her house 10-12 times to invite her, but she refused and even disregarded Kannada, despite building her career here. Shouldn't we teach such people a lesson?"

DK Shivakumar Weighs In

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar also expressed concern, stating, "If actors, producers, and directors don't support such events, what's the point of an international film festival? Consider this a warning or request to the Film Chamber and Academy. Cinema isn't just for a few; government support is crucial."

For those unfamiliar, Rashmika made her acting debut in 2016 with Kirik Party opposite Rakshit Shetty. Currently, she is in the spotlight for her recent release Chhaava, co-starring Vicky Kaushal. The film has been a massive success, grossing over ₹500 crore worldwide.