Magadheera distributor faces suspension

Vijayakumar, the distributor of Magadheera, is to be suspended by the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) as per the president, Dr. Jayamala’s decision (in consultation with the other members of the KFCC in a meeting held on Wednesday). The suspension order has come after Vijayakumar violated the rules of the Chamber by releasing Magadheera in more theatres than permitted. On Tuesday, more than 30 Kannada producers from the Kannada Film Producers’ Association (KFPA) protested in front of the KFCC against non-Kannada movies, including Magadheera. According to them, the distributors of the non-Kannada films were expanding the business of their big budget films by increasing their screening opportunities in Karnataka. Non-Kannada films can be screened only in 14 single screen theatres and three multiplexes in Bangalore and four other centers in the state simultaneously, according to KFCC rules. The film should be released seven weeks after its official release. Magadheera defied the rules and released in 51 theatres directly after its Andhra Pradesh release. Vijayakumar, who bought the distribution rights of Magadheera for 1.5 crores, has already earned 4 crores in the first week itself, according to sources.