While Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa is still incarcerated in connection with the Renukaswamy murder case, excitement for his upcoming movie, The Devil, is spreading throughout Karnataka.
From widespread fan campaigns to a message conveyed via his wife, Vijayalakshmi, the actor remains a prominent figure on screens and social media as the film's December 11 release approaches.
Darshan is presently incarcerated at Ballari Central Prison due to his involvement in the murder of 33-year-old Renukaswamy from Chitradurga. Amidst his legal challenges, the actor communicated with his fans on December 9 via a message delivered by Vijayalakshmi, expressing gratitude for their unwavering support in promoting The Devil throughout the state.
Darshan expressed that he senses your presence with him at all times, even from a far. He encouraged fans to remain unaffected by any 'noise, rumours or negativity' about him. He advised them to focus their energy on the film, allowing its triumph to 'address every question, every doubt, every voice ... not with words, but through the film's resounding success.'
Vijayalakshmi, after posting the note online, responded to new accusations that Darshan had mistreated other inmates, calling them 'unfounded' following her visit to the prison and discussions with officials. The note stated, 'Rumors about Darshan have hurt me. The truth might be quiet for some time, but it will never surrender.'
The Devil is set for a major debut on December 11, with almost 90% of single screens in Karnataka dedicated to the movie. Supreet and BK Gangadhar from Shri Jaimatha Productions are managing the distribution. Despite the gravity of the situation, fans, who affectionately call Darshan 'DBoss' and themselves 'DArmy', feel the film's release is akin to a celebration. In various districts, The Devil will start showing as early as 6:30 am, with screenings in north Karnataka beginning around 8:30 am. Over 150 early-morning shows have been scheduled.
Although DBoss may be inside, we feel he is always with us. We've been anticipating this day for months," expressed Manoj, a 24-year-old fan from Mandya who has secured tickets for the 6:30 am and 10 am shows.
Others share this sentiment. "We grew up watching Darshan. He's a mass hero, a people's hero.
The Devil is our celebration," stated Prashanth, who traveled from Tumkur to Bengaluru with friends to see the film. For many, the early morning screening experience feels like a ritual. "This is our Deepavali. When Boss's movie is released, we want to be the first to see it," said 19-year-old Rakesh from Mysuru.
