Kodava Community Demands Protection For Rashmika Mandanna After Controversial Remarks By Congress MLA Ravi Kumar Gowda

March 9, 2025: The Kodava community has raised concerns for actress Rashmika Mandanna’s safety following controversial remarks made by Karnataka Congress MLA, Ravi Kumar Gowda. Gowda’s comments, made on March 3, have sparked outrage among members of the Kodava tribe and led them to formally request security for the actress.

Gowda’s statement criticized Rashmika for allegedly refusing to attend the International Film Festival in Karnataka last year, despite repeated invitations. He claimed that she had said, “I have my house in Hyderabad, I don’t know where Karnataka is, and I don’t have time. I can’t come.” The MLA further stated that despite several efforts by a fellow legislator to invite her to the event, Rashmika dismissed the invitation and even showed disregard for the Kannada language and culture. He concluded with, “Shouldn’t we teach them a lesson?” These words have sparked a backlash, especially among the Kodava community, who feel that Rashmika, a member of their indigenous tribe, is being unfairly targeted.

N.U. Nachappa, President of the Kodava National Council, addressed the issue, emphasizing that Rashmika’s rise to stardom in the Indian film industry is a result of her dedication and hard work. He expressed concern that some individuals, who misunderstand artistic criticism, have resorted to harassing the actress. The Kodava community has since submitted a letter to Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Karnataka State Home Minister G. Parameshwar, urging them to ensure Rashmika’s protection and to condemn any form of threat or harassment.

The letter also highlighted Rashmika’s unique contributions to Indian cinema, stating that she deserves respect for her achievements. It emphasized that, as an individual, Rashmika has every right to make personal choices without being forced to conform to others’ expectations.

On the professional front, Rashmika continues to be a major star in Indian cinema. She was last seen in the blockbuster films Pushpa 2: The Rule and Chhaava, both of which have been huge hits. She also has several exciting projects lined up, including Sikandar, starring Salman Khan; Kubera, featuring Dhanush; and Thama, alongside Ayushmann Khurrana.

The Kodava community has raised concerns for actress Rashmika Mandanna’s safety following controversial remarks made by Karnataka Congress MLA, Ravi Kumar Gowda. Gowda’s comments, made on March 3, have sparked outrage among members of the Kodava tribe and led them to formally request security for the actress.

Gowda’s statement criticized Rashmika for allegedly refusing to attend the International Film Festival in Karnataka last year, despite repeated invitations. He claimed that she had said, “I have my house in Hyderabad, I don’t know where Karnataka is, and I don’t have time. I can’t come.” The MLA further stated that despite several efforts by a fellow legislator to invite her to the event, Rashmika dismissed the invitation and even showed disregard for the Kannada language and culture. He concluded with, “Shouldn’t we teach them a lesson?” These words have sparked a backlash, especially among the Kodava community, who feel that Rashmika, a member of their indigenous tribe, is being unfairly targeted.

N.U. Nachappa, President of the Kodava National Council, addressed the issue, emphasizing that Rashmika’s rise to stardom in the Indian film industry is a result of her dedication and hard work. He expressed concern that some individuals, who misunderstand artistic criticism, have resorted to harassing the actress. The Kodava community has since submitted a letter to Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Karnataka State Home Minister G. Parameshwar, urging them to ensure Rashmika’s protection and to condemn any form of threat or harassment.

The letter also highlighted Rashmika’s unique contributions to Indian cinema, stating that she deserves respect for her achievements. It emphasized that, as an individual, Rashmika has every right to make personal choices without being forced to conform to others’ expectations.

On the professional front, Rashmika continues to be a major star in Indian cinema. She was last seen in the blockbuster films Pushpa 2: The Rule and Chhaava, both of which have been huge hits. She also has several exciting projects lined up, including Sikandar, starring Salman Khan; Kubera, featuring Dhanush; and Thama, alongside Ayushmann Khurrana.