Siddaramaiah claims BJP MLAs forcing theatres to screen 'The Kashmir Files' instead of 'James', actor Shivarajkumar has THIS to say

Bengaluru: Kannada superstar Shivarajkumar on Thursday refuted Congress leader Siddaramaiah's allegation that the "James" film is being taken off the theatre screens in lieu of "The Kashmir Files" at the behest of some BJP leaders.

"There is no connection between 'The Kashmir Files' and 'James' because this issue is not for discussion. 'The Kashmir Files' is running in theatres. Appaji (Dr Rajkumar) and my mother taught us not to interfere in the screening of good films," he told reporters here.

"James" is the last film of Puneeth Rajkumar, the younger brother of Shivarajkumar. The film was released on March 17 in cinemas and is running well.

However, Shivarajkumar said the producer of "James", Kishore Pathikonda, has screening problems with S Rajamouli's RRR film.

"My concern is that RRR is being screened at major Kannada centres like Navarang where Rs 20 to Rs 22 lakh collection takes place. Shivanna and I met the Chief Minister and he has asked us to meet the Film Chamber to sort out the problem," Pathikonda said.

On Wednesday, Bommai said there were no hurdles in the screening of "James" and assured Shivaraj Kumar of solving the problem.

Controversy erupted after Siddaramaiah alleged that some BJP leaders were allegedly put pressure on theatre owners to remove "James" to facilitate the screening of "The Kashmir Files". (UNI)