Director Prem Files Complaint Against Producer Kanakapura Srinivas

Tensions in the Kannada film industry have escalated as prominent director Jogi Prem filed a formal complaint with the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) against veteran producer Kanakapura Srinivas. The move follows recent controversial remarks made by Srinivas during a promotional event for his upcoming film, ‘Cottonpete Gate’

Background of the Dispute
During the event, Kanakapura Srinivas reportedly launched a scathing verbal attack on several industry heavyweights, including directors Prem and A.P. Arjun, as well as actors Darshan, Dhruva Sarja, and the late Puneeth Rajkumar. The producer alleged that many in the industry had cheated him, portraying himself as the victim of a “corrupt” system.

“Respect is Mandatory”

Prem Hits Back
After meeting the newly appointed KFCC President, Jayamala, to submit his written complaint, a visibly upset Prem addressed the media. He slammed Srinivas for his “senseless” comments regarding the mothers of industry professionals and his derogatory remarks about stars like Darshan and Puneeth Rajkumar, and even DCM D.K. Shivakumar.

“I know how to use harsh words better than he does, but one should never speak so lowly of others,” Prem stated. “If he had issues with Darshan, he should have spoken while Darshan was out. My home and office are in Chandra Layout—if he has the courage, let him come there and talk.”

Financial Dispute Clarified
Addressing the specific financial allegations raised by Srinivas, Prem clarified a decade-old transaction:

• The Advance: About ten years ago, Srinivas paid Prem an advance of ₹9 lakh for a project.
• The Delay: Prem claims he set up an office and hired assistants, but the producer did not initiate the film for three years. During this time, Prem refrained from taking on other projects.
• The Settlement: When Srinivas eventually asked for his money back, Prem—despite having spent significantly on pre-production and losing three years of work—returned ₹5 lakh following the intervention of veteran Sa. Ra. Govindu.
  “For me, ₹4 lakh is not a big deal,” Prem explained. “But years later, he is showing up at my office claiming I never paid him. I have now filed a defamation lawsuit in court. I came to the Film Chamber first because it is the proper protocol before taking full legal action.”
  “I Started from the Bottom”
  Refuting claims of being “difficult,” Prem reminded the public of his humble roots. “I came from a background of grazing cattle; everyone in this industry has grown from the bottom. From Kariya to KD, I ensure my producers recover their investment before I move to another film. If he had personal grievances, he should have called for a private meeting instead of shaming everyone publicly.”
  The KFCC is expected to review the complaint and summon both parties for a hearing in the coming days.