Kannada superstar Sudeep debuts on Karnataka’s election battleground, will campaign for ‘uncle’ Bommai

Bommai praised the actor, saying Sudeep’s support gives strength to BJP’s campaign efforts in the poll-bound state. The polls are scheduled for May 10.

While Sudeep clarified he was not joining either the BJP or any other political party, he said he owed the CM a debt of gratitude, having known him since childhood. In a press conference with Bommai, the actor said he will not be charging any fees for campaigning.

He also said he would campaign only in seats assigned to him within his human limitations and in between shooting schedules. He ruled out travelling across the state, citing his inability to do so.

The actor was all praise for Prime Minister Narendra Modi as well. “There are a lot of things about the BJP I agree with…Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s work in development must be lauded,” he said.

Congress leader RS Surjewala criticised the BJP, on twitter, saying the BJP was relying on film stars for support as no one was listening to the CM. “People, not film stars, will decide the fate of Karnataka,” he tweeted.

A picture of Sudeep and Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) President DK Shivakumar had gone viral in February, leading to speculations of the actor joining the party. The actor had then declined any commitment, saying he would consider all options and also the wishes of his fans.Rumors that the actor was joining the BJP had been circulating on social media hours before the announcement. Actor-turned-politician Prakash Raj had rebuffed them, calling it a ploy by the “losing BJP” on twitter. Responding to the veteran actor’s tweet, Sudeep said that while Prakash Raj is a good artist who he would love to work with, he is supporting Bommai because of his own loyalty to the CM.

Sudeep said he would support those who stood by him in his times of difficulty.

In 2019 Lok Sabha elections, two other popular actors Darshan and Yash had actively campaigned for South Indian actor-turned-politician Sumalatha in Mandya who fought a strong contender in then chief minister HD Kumaraswamy’s son, Nikhil Kumaraswamy.