Some Brahmin associations in Guntur have come forward to boycott the film Kannappa.
They have called for a gathering at Shankar Vilas on 7th June, claiming that the upcoming film is a "fake Kannappa" (Nakili Kannappa) that distorts history.
Their objections include giving a modern look to Kannappa’s wife, who is traditionally considered a tribal woman, and portraying Brahmin characters as comedians with names like Pilaka and Gilaka.
While the issue of historical distortion can be debated, the depiction of Kannappa’s wife — who lived centuries ago — makes it difficult to define what an "authentic" costume would be.
That said, the portrayal of Brahmins as comic characters is not new. In the film Annamayya, Brahmanandam and Gundu Hanumantha Rao played comedic Brahmin roles using wordplay with terms like dhamaalu and dhimelu.
This trend dates back even further to the classic Mayabazar, where the characters Sharma and Sastry, played by Allu Ramalingaiah and Vangara, were also used for comic relief.
Brahmin associations must also consider that in Kannappa, Mohan Babu’s character—who is a Brahmin — is shown in a positive light.
In contrast, the Brahmin character played by Rao Gopal Rao in Krishnam Raju's Bhakta Kannappa was portrayed negatively. Clearly, both positive and negative depictions have existed over time.
The deep-seated resentment among Brahmin groups seems to stem from the Denikaina Ready controversy years ago, which left a lasting scar.
This appears to be another opportunity for them to express their dissatisfaction and take a stand against Kannappa in whatever way they can.
Now, all eyes are on Manchu Vishnu to see how he will respond to this opposition from the Brahmin associations.
