Shocking- Sivaji has only 10 prints in Karnataka!

H.D.Gangaraju, is a Tamil film distributor of Karnataka territory based in Bangalore. He holds the world record for distributing the maximum number of Rajnikanth films in a single film territory, anywhere in the world! Gangaraju is also said to be a close friend of the superstar and is now distributing Sivaji in Karnataka. On the eve of the film’s release Gangaraju speaks in an exclusive interview to Sify.com from his Bangalore office.

Q.What is the price that you have paid for taking distribution rights of 'Sivaji' in Karnataka?
I have paid Rs.3.25 Crores. This is the highest I have paid so far for a Rajni sir film. But Rajni sir has always been lucky for me, from the days when I first distributed Pokiri Raja in the 80’s. Do you know that he refunded my losses when Baba bombed? Let me tell you he is the real super-duper star of Indian cinema, the box-office Baadshah... there is nobody like him!

How many prints are you releasing in Karnataka?
Only 10 prints, as per the rules set by Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce for non-Kannada films. There will be 52 shows of Sivaji in Bangalore city every day in 13 screens, with five prints in circulation, besides that there will be screening of the film in five outside towns of Kolar,Shimoga, Chickmagalur, Davanagere and Chitradurga. Some important areas of the Mysore region will not have the screening of 'Sivaji' because of tense situation prevailing there in the wake of Cauvery verdict.

Don’t you think these 10 prints for the entire state of Karnataka is ridiculous?
To go to the entire nook and corner of Karnataka, I know 10 prints are not enough. But what can I do? I’m, one of the members who framed these rules, to protect the Kannada film industry. I will also increase the ticket rates to ensure that I cover my cost.

But the superstar grew up in Bangalore and definitely he should be given preferential treatment. Please comment.
I fully agree with your viewpoint and there should be a different yardstick for a Rajnikanth films. One should also remember that Dr.Rajkumar’s debut film Bedara Kannappa was produced by the same AVM banner, the producers of Sivaji in the early 50's. AVM banner has made 42 films in Kannada. I also agree that first priority should be given to Kannada in Karnataka. But there should be some special treatment to Sir’s films. He grew up in Bangalore. He has acted in a number of Kannada films and truly he is the living legend of Indian cinema.

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