‘Gaddhalakonda Ganesh’: Harish Shankar gets emotional, says he is sad

The title of ‘Valmiki’ now stands changed to ‘Gaddhalakonda Ganesh’.  The makers of the Varun Tej-starrer took this decision on Thursday night in the wake of the Anantapur administration banning the movie in the district following the objections raised by members of the Boya Valmiki community over the title.  

Announcing the title change, director Harish Shankar expressed sadness and got emotional.  “Some people started opposing the title right from the time it was announced.  But we felt that the reservations of those opposing it would subside once they watch the mind. When the Censor Board watched the movie, the board members didn’t utter a single line against the title. However, the representatives of some Boya Valmiki community have been saying that the title is inappropriate for a film whose male lead is violent.  Just a day ahead of the film’s release, the film stands banned in Anantapur and restrictions imposed in Kurnool,” he said.  

The director added, “My father is an orthodox and religious person who is very proud of the title.  I proudly belong to the Hindu society.  Today, I feel that I am defeated.  I don’t know whom to say sorry to.  Distributors will go through losses if the ban continues.  Since the matter has gone this far, we have decided to change the title.  I am sad that some people opposed the movie without watching it.  My request to the Boya Valmiki brothers to watch the movie,” he added.