Bangalore: The post of chairman of the Karnataka Chalanachitra Academy (KCA) is up for grabs. It has been vacant for nearly a year now. There has been speculation about who would become the third chief of the government body. TS Nagabharana was the first chairperson followed by Tara Venu. Lobbying is at its peak.
Three names are doing the rounds among the know alls. Actor-director V Ravichandran, director-producer Rajendra Singh Babu and actress-politician Bhavana.
Many film producers are in favor of Babu, the veteran director who has controversially suggested that there is no need for holding the Bengaluru International Film Festival (hosted by KCA) and supporting dubbing of other language films into Kannada.
Many producers lost money remaking other language films. They hope to recover their losses through dubbing – if it is permitted. Babu supports their cause. However earlier he was an advisor to IDBI bank on loans to Kannada filmmakers, a scheme which was given up after just two years and this could go against his candidature being successful.
A lobby is also working overtime to push Ravichandran’s name for the post.
Producer Umesh Banakar says, “When you consider all the names, or even otherwise, Ravichandran is the best person to lead KCA. The Academy needs a new direction and so does the film industry. We do not need anyone who does politics in all things they do. Through his films Ravichandran, has given a new direction to Kannada film industry before. He is open to ideas, dynamic and a visionary. More than anything, he does not indulge in petty politics. If you don’t want the industry to plunge into further depths, Ravichandran should lead KCA.”
Sources say that Ravichandran is not keen on the appointment as it amounts to a political appointment. The previous chairperson, Tara is a BJP MLC.
Sources say actress Bhavana too in the race. Earlier she had a shot at the MLC seat from the film fraternity, however in the end she was pipped at the finishing line by Jayamala. Her supporters are now hoping that she will be compensated with this position.
Then there is there’s a dark horse, write and film director Baraguru Ramachandrappa. He is known more for his literary contributions than as a filmmaker. He has been the president of the Kannada Sahitya Parishat and the Kannada Development Authority.
Meanwhile, it is learnt that the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce has sent a list of names to the government. It is said to have suggested the names of all its past presidents for the post.
