Sat Jan 04 06:53:13 UTC 2025: **Telugu Megastar Ram Charan’s ‘Game Changer’ Faces Karnataka Ban Calls After Poster Controversy**
BENGALURU, INDIA – The release of the much-anticipated Telugu film “Game Changer,” starring Ram Charan, has been overshadowed by a controversy in Karnataka. The film’s trailer was released recently, generating significant buzz, but the lack of the Kannada title on promotional posters has angered Kannada fans, leading to calls for a ban on the film’s release in the state.
The controversy stems from the posters featuring the English title “Game Changer” rather than a Kannada translation. This omission has sparked outrage among Kannada-speaking audiences, who perceive it as a disregard for their language and culture. The hashtag #BanGameChangerInKarnataka is trending heavily on social media, reflecting the intensity of the protest.
Reports suggest that some individuals have vandalized posters, spraying paint and adding messages demanding a ban. This escalation follows recent incidents of attacks on shopping malls and hotels in Karnataka over perceived linguistic slights. While the film’s makers have remained silent on the issue, fans are demanding that the title be translated and printed on posters in Kannada immediately.
The film, directed by Shankar, is scheduled for release on January 10th, coinciding with Sankranti. The controversy casts a shadow over what was expected to be a triumphant release, particularly given the positive response to the recently released trailer showcasing Ram Charan in a dual role. The extent to which the protests will affect the film’s release in Karnataka remains to be seen.