Karnataka distributor reluctant to release 'Thug Life’, despite SC relief

Bengaluru: Despite a Supreme Court order allowing the release of Thug Life in Karnataka, the film's distributor in the state has chosen not to go ahead with it.

Venkatesh Kamalakar, who holds the distribution rights under VR Films, indicated that there are no plans to release the movie in Karnataka. He mentioned that although the rights had been secured earlier, various complications had prevented its release at the time.

When questioned about the possibility of a delayed release, Kamalakar reportedly pointed out that it has already been over two weeks since the film’s release elsewhere.

He suggested that the film’s lacklustre performance at the box office and diminishing interest from multiplexes, which are now offering only a fraction of the initial expectations, make a release no longer viable, TNIE reported.

The ongoing standoff over the release of in Karnataka also appears to be tied to financial issues. According to a reliable source, the film’s producer has yet to repay a significant advance—reportedly amounting to several crores—to the distributor, and the matter remains unresolved.

Although Venkatesh Kamalakar refrained from discussing specific financial terms, he indicated that the production house would only be able to explore alternative distribution options once the pending settlement is addressed. He clarified that while another distributor could potentially be involved, such a move would only be possible with his team's approval.

Kamalakar emphasized that no communication had been received from either the producers or multiplexes regarding a Karnataka release. He made it clear that his company is no longer interested in pursuing the matter.