Vijay Deverakonda’s latest Telugu release Kingdom has sparked intense backlash in Tamil Nadu, with pro-Tamil groups staging protests in Madurai and Trichy over the film’s depiction of Sri Lankan Tamils.
Members of Naam Thamizhar Katchi (NTK) allege that the film distorts historical facts and demeans the legacy of LTTE fighters and Eezham Tamils.
NTK cadres demanded a ban on the film, accusing it of portraying Tamil rebels as “enslaved mountain dwellers.” State Propaganda Secretary Saravanan stated, “They fought for 30 years and died, but are shown as enslaved people. This is an attempt to twist historical facts.”
Theatre managers were approached, and banners of Kingdom were removed following assurances of discussions with distributors. Meanwhile, distributors have filed a petition in the Madras High Court seeking police protection amid rising tensions.
Directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri, Kingdom stars Vijay Deverakonda, Satyadev, and Venkatesh. Set in Sri Lanka, the film follows a cop-turned-spy who becomes the saviour of a tribal community. Despite a strong opening, the film has faced criticism for its screenplay and narrative choices.
