The “Salaga” and “Bheema” of Kannada cinema, Dhuniya Vijay (alias Vijayakumar), is showing strong support for new talent and backing quality projects. Recently, Vijayakumar was also praised for his generosity when he supported the family of the late director Guruprasad.
Now, Vijayakumar is extending his support to the film Love Reddy, simultaneously made in Kannada and Telugu. While actors like Prabhas and RGV have shown support for the Telugu version, released last month, Vijayakumar is backing the Kannada version.
The makers of Love Reddy, which is based on a true story from the Karnataka-Andhra Pradesh border about Narayana Reddy, are receiving a major boost from this iconic actor. Love Reddy is being presented on the silver screen by Sandalwood’s “Salaga,” Vijayakumar. He also announced plans to promote the film during a four-day visit to Dubai for a cultural event, where he hopes to arrange for its Dubai release.
Love Reddy, based on a real incident, has already resonated with audiences in the Telugu cinema industry, achieving a strong box-office performance. The film is directed by Smaran Reddy, originally from Hyderabad, with actor Anjan’s family funding the project. Shravani plays the female lead.
The Telugu film Love Reddy, now dubbed in Kannada with songs and dialogues in Kannada, is set in the border region of Andhra and Karnataka. The Kannada version’s trailer was launched by Sandalwood’s Salaga, Vijayakumar, during a media briefing at MMB Legacy on Saturday morning.
Speaking about the film, the producers said, “We don’t have a background in film. Anjan Ramchandra, an actor in this movie, is part of our family. With newcomers making the film, finding investors was challenging, so we pooled our resources to fund it. The content succeeded and received a positive response in Telugu. We are forever grateful to Vijayakumar,” the producers shared.
Kannada actor NT Ramaswamy, still a household name in Kannada cinema, expressed happiness at the positive response to the film, especially given that it showcases new talent. “I didn’t even attend the promotions, but my role has received praise, and people are connecting with it. When I visited a theater in Hyderabad, a woman unexpectedly slapped me, maybe because my character struck a chord with her. It’s a strange blessing, seeing my role resonate with people. Vijay supports newcomers, understanding the struggle of entering the industry without help. Salaga Vijay is not just an actor; he’s a Kannada icon.”
Director Smaran Reddy stated that the film is a sensation in Telugu, and the Kannada-dubbed version is set for release on November 22. Telugu star Prabhas and other industry figures have already tweeted about it. “Sandalwood’s Salaga is not just a name; it’s our pride.”
Vijayakumar, also known as Dhuniya Vijay, shared that it has been four days since he watched Love Reddy, yet its characters continue to haunt him. “The film is crafted in a way that lingers with you. I appreciate the dedication of the entire cast and crew, and I will keep supporting new filmmakers from my banner. We should face victory and defeat equally, and I promise to stand by this team if any issues arise with theaters,” stated Vijayakumar.
