Demonstrators smear Addanda Cariappa’s face with ink for his play on Gandhiji

The protesters were led by one Kushal Hanumegowda. | Photo credit: Image for representational purposes

Controversial theater personality and former Mysuru Rangayana director Addanda C. Cariappa was allegedly assaulted and his face smeared with ink by a group of protesters during a screening of a play on the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi at the Suchitra Film Academy in Banashankari on Saturday.

The incident took place during a production of Gandhi Hatheya Kicchu organized by Rangabhoomi Trust (R), Kodagu, at Naga Links, Banashankari II Stage. Mr. Cariappa, who wrote and directed the play, was confronted by protesters who objected to its portrayal of Mahatma Gandhi.

The protesters, led by one Kushal Hanumegowda, filed a complaint with the Banashankari police, accusing Mr. Cariappa of spreading misinformation about Gandhi and portraying him as “anti-national” and a “slave of Muslims” in the play. The complaint was signed by 14 people.

The complainants alleged that the game sought to blame the Congress and Mahatma Gandhi for the partition of the country and contained misleading references to “payment of ₹50 million to Pakistan”. They also objected to audience members being forced to raise slogans condemning Mahatma Gandhi during the performance.

The complaint further alleged that the tickets for the Bengaluru show were sold on the black market in Mysuru. When the complainants questioned the alleged sale, Mr. Cariappa allegedly abused them with profanity.

The plaintiffs sought legal action against Mr. Cariappa, the actors who appeared in the play and others associated with its production.

Published – 31 Oct 2026 22:39 IST