A bitter promotional clash in Kochi has left Kabir Bedi fuming, describing the cancellation of ‘Korigajja’s press conference as ‘disgraceful.’ The Kannada film’s team points fingers at Mammootty’s squad for intentionally clashing schedules with their Malayalam release ‘Chathapach.’
Rooted in the mythical tales of Tulu Nadu’s Korigajja deity, the movie features Bedi prominently, aiming for pan-Indian appeal. Preparations for the Kochi event were thorough—a week’s notice to media, with Bedi and Bhavya on hand. Then, a bombshell: Mammootty’s presser locked in at the same hour, announced last-minute.
Team members claim it was calculated, banking on the superstar’s media magnetism. Kochi’s journalist ecosystem, where beats overlap heavily, relies on PR harmony to dodge such pile-ups. No such courtesy here—a midnight demand to stand down due to anticipated no-shows.
Laakh of rupees wasted, the event folded into a low-key 5 PM alternative, gutting promotional momentum. Sudheer Attavar and Trivikram Saplaya expressed outrage, questioning Malayalam cinema’s grace given the film’s regional collaborations. Saplaya touted other cities’ successes and reciprocal support in Bengaluru, urging against divisive precedents.
Bedi, championing Malayalam’s 25% National Award sweep, voiced regret: ‘I came with respect; this mishandling lacks professionalism.’ Bhavya blasted the indignity heaped on an international veteran. The uproar casts a shadow over cross-regional promotions, highlighting the high-stakes jostle for spotlight in South cinema.