Protesters smear ink on Addanda Cariappa’s face over his play on Gandhiji

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The protesters were led by one Kushal Hanumegowda. | Photo Credit: Image for representational purpose

Controversial theatre personality and former Mysuru Rangayana director Addanda C. Cariappa was allegedly attacked and his face smeared with ink by a group of protesters during the staging of a play on Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination at Suchitra Film Academy in Banashankari on Saturday.

The incident occurred during the staging of Gandhi Hatheya Kicchu, organised by Rangabhoomi Trust (R), Kodagu, at Naga Links, Banashankari II Stage. Mr. Cariappa, who wrote and directed the play, was confronted by protesters who objected to its portrayal of Mahatma Gandhi.

The protesters, led by one Kushal Hanumegowda, lodged a complaint with the Banashankari police, accusing Mr. Cariappa of spreading misinformation about Gandhi and portraying him as “anti-national” and a “slave of Muslims” in the play. The complaint was signed by 14 persons.

The complainants alleged that the play sought to blame the Congress and Mahatma Gandhi for the Partition of the country and made misleading references to the “payment of ₹50 crore to Pakistan”. They also objected to members of the audience being made to raise slogans condemning Mahatma Gandhi during the performance.

The complaint further alleged that tickets for the Bengaluru staging had been sold on the black market in Mysuru. When the complainants questioned the alleged sale, Mr. Cariappa reportedly abused them using vulgar language.

The complainants sought legal action against Mr. Cariappa, the actors who performed in the play, and others associated with its staging.

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