Addanda Cariappa’s face smeared with ink during Gandhi play

Bengaluru: A controversy erupted during the staging of ‘The Truth Behind Gandhi’s Assassination’ at Suchitra Cinema and Cultural Academy in Banashankari, where former Mysuru Rangayana director and theatre personality Addanda Cariappa was allegedly manhandled and ink was smeared on his face by protesters opposing the play.

The incident occurred during a programme organised by Kodagu Rangabhoomi Trust. Some organisation leaders and Congress workers allegedly entered the premises, objecting to dialogues in the play that they claimed portrayed Mahatma Gandhi in a derogatory manner.

The confrontation reportedly escalated into a heated argument, following which Cariappa was allegedly dragged and ink was smeared on his face. The incident triggered considerable tension at the venue.

Two complaints have been registered at Banashankari police station in connection with the incident. A person identified as Kushal filed a complaint alleging that the play was spreading misinformation about Gandhi’s assassination and presenting the freedom fighter in a derogatory manner.

The complainant alleged that the production was attempting to create a misleading impression about Gandhi’s political positions and the role of the Congress in the country’s Partition. He also alleged that tickets for the Bengaluru performance had been sold in the black market in Mysuru and that those questioning the practice were verbally abused.

The complaint sought action against Cariappa and those involved in writing and performing the play.

Meanwhile, Cariappa filed a counter-complaint alleging that the performance was deliberately disrupted, he was assaulted and threats were issued to him. Police have registered both complaints and initiated an investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.

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