Kollywood veteran T. Rajendar addressed a press conference on behalf of Chennai and Chengalpetfilm distributors association to clarify the controversy surrounding the release of the Rajinikanth starrer Darbar directed by AR Murugadoss and produced by Lyca Productions.
Distributors from various parts of the state allege that the Darbar has incurred losses to them, due to which they have been demanding compensation from the makers. Recently, AR Murugadoss seeked police protection due to the ongoing controversy.
T. Rajendar, who happens to be the head of Chennai and Chengalpet Film Distributors Association, held the press conference as the distributors belonging to the aforementioned area have forwarded their grievances regarding Darbar's run. "I have clarified one thing from my side. If they (distributors) have willingly bought the film on a Minimum Guarantee basis, we cannot advise them to initiate legal proceedings against the producer. Instead of taking the legal route, the problem must be approached in a just manner."
T. Rajendar said that the distributors had earlier approached the producers to address their problems. "The affected distributors have given their money to the producers (Lyca Productions) first. They have struck a deal with the producer and they had approached Lyca Productions first, but they never gave a proper response." As a result, he said that the distributors decided to approach AR Murugadoss for a solution.
T. Rajendar also objected against AR Murugadoss' alleged decision to initiate legal action against the distributors and added that they approached the director with no malicious intent "As a fellow director, I'm asking, who were behind the success of your Thuppakki and Kaththi. The distributors played a major role in their success. You had given police complaint against those who came to your office to give a petition. Is it justified"
"You haven't even met them. At Least meet and tell that you cannot solve the problem and ask them to approach the Producers' Council or other concerned authorities." He added "If the distributors had to face jail term as a price for distributing Darbar, I am saying You bought Darbar, you will be counting bars, nee enni paar (you must think). I am also asking you thow can they save Tamil Nadu if they cannot save their own film."