Bharateeyudu 2 (Indian 2) lands in trouble as case has been filed."Indian 2" Faces Legal Challenge Over Martial Arts Techniques.
As the highly anticipated "Indian 2" starring Kamal Haasan and directed by Shankar prepares for its grand release on July 12th, a legal challenge has emerged, threatening to delay the film's premiere.
Aasan Rajendran, the head teacher of Varma Kalai, a martial art originating from Kerala, has filed a complaint in the Madurai District Court demanding a ban on the film. Rajendran claims he trained Kamal Haasan for the original "Indian" (1996) and alleges that the techniques he taught were utilized in "Indian 2" without his permission.
The court heard the case on July 9th and adjourned the hearing until July 11th to allow the "Indian 2" team to file a response to Rajendran's allegations.
Rajendran, a martial arts instructor from Madurai's HMS Colony, points to his credit in the original "Indian" as evidence of his involvement. He argues that the film's team should have sought his permission before using the techniques he taught Kamal Haasan for the first film.
Director Shankar, in a recent interview, stated he is unaware of Kamal Haasan's preparation process for his roles. He confirmed that "Indian 2" consulted Prakasam Gurukkal, a renowned Varma Kalai expert from Kerala, for the film.
"This time, we needed expert advice, and we brought Prakasam Gurukkal from Kerala and took his guidance. You can see a different Varmam style in the film," Shankar explained.
The legal battle threatens to cast a shadow over the upcoming release of "Indian 2," which boasts a star-studded cast including Kamal Haasan, Siddharth, Rakul Preet Singh, Priya Bhavani Shankar, SJ Suryah, Bobby Simhaa, and others. The film is a joint production by Lyca Productions and Red Giant Movies.
The outcome of this legal dispute could determine the fate of "Indian 2" and whether the highly anticipated sequel will hit theaters as planned.