Nikitha Thukral relieved as Film Producers' Association lifts ban

Accepting its earlier mistake, the Karnataka Film Producers’ Association has lifted the three-year ban imposed on actor Nikitha Thukral.

The decision to revoke the ban comes after the association came under severe criticism from various quarters, including the Kannada film industry and women’s rights activists. While many in Sandalwood termed the decision hasty, activists raised objection to the ban describing it as a sexist action.

The ban was served on Nikitha after she was held responsible for marital discord between Sandalwood star Tugudeepa Darshan and Vijayalakshmi, a charge that was vehemently denied by the Mumbai-based actor.
Support was growing for Nikitha with sympathisers stating that the actor was being made a scapegoat. A day after the ban was announced, the Karnataka Cine Actors’ Association had pledged its support to Nikitha. The Karnataka State Women’s Commission questioned the action and was planning to send a notice to the producers’ association.

Parvathamma interferes
Finally, strong intervention from Parvathamma Rajkumar forced Karnataka Film Producers Association to announce lifting of the ban on Nikitha. The Sandalwood veteran had taken strong objection to the ban on Nikitha.

A meeting held on Thursday had no other option, but to revoke the ban. “We have erred and we are rectifying the mistake,” conceded Munirathna, president, Karnataka Film Producers’ Association, in a statement. “Nikitha is free to work anywhere in Karnataka and with anyone she wishes to,” said the statement.

Stating that it was foolish to ban Nikitha, Munirathna said that “the word ‘ban’ has been banished from Kannada film industry.
Senior actor Shivrajkumar, who had earlier criticised the ban, has welcomed the decision. “It is wonderful that the producers have realised their mistakes and lifted the ban on Nikitha. The ban was announced without any reasoning,” said Shivrajkumar.

Darshan was arrested on last Friday for allegedly abusing his wife Vijayalakshmi and son Vineesh. The actor has filed a bail plea before the sessions court, after the court had rejected his petition.