Date:19/11/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/11/19/stories/2008111955090500.htm

Karnataka - Bangalore

Speedy decision on ‘Circus’ surprises Kannada film industry

Special Correspondent

Dayal told pay Rs. 1.5 lakh to Mahendar

BANGALORE: Even as allegations and counter allegations, and claims and counter claims over cinema scripts are on the rise, Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) headed by actor Jaimala has exhibited a rare unity and speed in settling a case with a warning to Kannada cinema industry.

The issue is about the story rights of Kannada film Circus, being made with an estimated budget of Rs. 3 crore.

Director S. Mahendar, who unsuccessfully contested the Assembly elections as a BJP candidate, lodged a complaint with the KFCC, Kannada Film Producers’ Association and the Kannada Film Directors’ Association stating that Circus is based on his concept. The central committee of the KFCC met on November 17 and instructed Dayal, director of the film, to pay Rs. 1.5 lakh to Mr. Mahendar as remuneration for the script on or before November 20. It also slapped a fine of Rs. 25,000 on him for behaving “outrageously” before the committee members. It obtained an acceptance letter form Mr. Dayal in this regard.

According to Mr. Mahendar, he conceived the concept during his college days. He pondered on the theme even after he became a full-time cinema director. Mr. Dayal joined him as an associate during the making of his film Gattimela. He had discussed the theme with many friends, including Mr. Dayal. Although, he was keen on translating his concept into a celluloid narrative, he could not do so as the story takes place in a running train and making such a film is an expensive affair. After learning that Circus is based on his concept, he contacted Mr. Dayal. But he could not elicit a proper response from Mr. Dayal. Mr. Dayal told The Hindu that it was true that Mr. Mahendar conceived the concept, but it was he who developed it into a cinema plot. While beginning the film he had acknowledged that Circus was based on the experiences of a senior director. But the industry is divided over the KFCC’s decision. Many producers and directors sought to know if it could settle many such issues.