Madikeri: A film based on Korragajja, one of the most revered daivas worshipped by the people of Tulu Nadu, is being made under the direction of Sudheer Attavar. The movie is produced under the Trivikram Cinemas and Success Life banners.

As part of the film’s promotion, the makers have announced a contest titled Korragajja Reels, aimed at popularising the film’s six songs by encouraging the public to create social media reels. However, this move has drawn strong opposition from the Kodagu District Daiva Worshippers and Daiva Dancers Association, which has demanded that the film team withdraw the contest immediately. The association’s founder-president P.M. Ravi warned that they are prepared to pursue legal action if the decision is not reversed.

Addressing a press conference in Madikeri, Ravi said daiva worship, which is limited to Tulu Nadu and a few neighbouring regions, has a history spanning thousands of years and should not be trivialised through social media reels. He said making reels on sacred daivas amounts to mocking deeply held beliefs and hurts the sentiments of daiva dancers and devotees.

The association clarified that it has no objection to making a film on Korragajja. However, encouraging students, youth and the general public—many of whom may not fully understand the daiva’s traditions, rituals and spiritual significance—to wear daiva costumes and make reels for prizes could lead to desecration. He also expressed concern that such reels could invite abusive or derogatory comments on social media, further disrespecting the daiva.

According to the film team’s announcement, prizes worth a total of ₹1 crore will be awarded for creative reels using songs from the film, with winners selected based on views and likes. Separate winners are to be chosen from all 31 districts of the state, and the top three performers are to be rewarded with foreign trips.

Ravi strongly criticised what he termed promotional gimmicks, stating that daiva worship is neither a performance art nor a spectacle for publicity. He urged the state government and the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce to intervene and take appropriate action, respecting the sentiments of daiva worshippers and daiva dancers.

He further highlighted the plight of the Parava, Pambada and Nalike communities—traditionally associated with daiva worship—who follow strict rituals and codes while performing daiva dances, yet continue to live in difficult socio-economic conditions. He expressed disappointment that governments have failed to take adequate steps for their development.

Ravi also noted that in earlier times, before the existence of courts and police stations, daivas played a key role in delivering justice, and said daiva worship is an integral part of folk culture. He called upon folk scholars to raise a strong voice in defence of these traditions.

Association president Sadashiva Rai, general secretary P.K. Dinesh, organising secretary B.R. Ramesh and member Manjunath Poojary were present at the press conference.