Bengaluru, 29 Aug 

Following the shocking overnight demolition of Kannada film legend Dr. Vishnuvardhan’s memorial at Abhimaan Studio on 7 August, the Forest Department has formally requested the Deputy Commissioner to seize control of the disputed land.

Deputy Conservator of Forests N. Ravindra Kumar sent a letter to City District Magistrate Jagadeesh on 22 Aug, which came to light on Friday, citing multiple violations of the original land lease agreement.

The land in question, located in Survey No. 26 of Mailasandra village, Kengeri Hobli, South Bengaluru, was granted to TN Balakrishna in 1969 for setting up the iconic Abhimaan Studio.

The Forest Department's letter states that not only was the land used beyond its sanctioned purpose, but Balakrishna’s heirs allegedly sold 10 acres of the land without proper authorisation.

According to the 9 April, 1969 government order, 20 acres were leased for 20 years on the condition that it be used solely for the development of the film studio. Sale, sub-leasing, or any alternative use was strictly prohibited.

However, in 2004, Balakrishna's his sons Ganesh and grandson Karthik sought permission from the District Collector to sell 10 acres of the land on the pretext of financial difficulties. The sale was allegedly done using the special powers of the District Collector. 

They reportedly sold the property to fund renovations of the studio — an act the department claims breached the original lease conditions.

The Forest Department’s letter called the sale a violation of the original government’s order.

The government’s move is seen as having the potential to mark the end of an era for the once-celebrated Abhimaan Studio.

-Salar News