Yash's Mother Alleges Fraud in Film Promotion Scheme

Pushpalatha, the mother of well-known Kannada actor Yash, has filed a complaint asserting that film promoter Harish Arasu engaged in significant fraud, mishandled funds, and issued threats against her regarding her inaugural film Kothalavadi. Pushpalatha claims that while she debuted as a producer, Harish neglected his promotional duties even after collecting large sums in her name.

As per the FIR lodged at the High Grounds Police Station, she recalls entrusting Harish with the promotion of Kothalavadi, which was shot from 24 May 2025 until mid-July in various locations, such as Talakadu, Gundlupet, Mysuru, and Chamarajanagar. The agreed-upon promotion fee was Rs 23 lakh.

Pushpalatha alleges that Harish received an initial payment of Rs 10 lakh on 18 May 2025, followed by Rs 5 lakh on 21 May. Additionally, she claims he accrued another Rs 24 lakh through diverse channels associated with the film, culminating in an alleged misappropriation of Rs 64,87,700, which includes Rs 4 lakh for print media promotions paid in cash on 31 July.

Despite these expenditures, she asserts that no actual promotional activities were conducted for the film slated for release on 1 August 2025. Although a trailer was launched on 23 July, she contends that actor Yash had to personally cover Rs 21,75,000 because of Harish's failure to deliver on the promotional aspect. Furthermore, she says many social media and film media promoters were left without payment.

When Pushpalatha inquired about the absent promotional efforts, Harish allegedly intimidated her and demanded a return of Rs 27 lakh. She claims that promotional materials were nonexistent on the release date, and she later discovered that Harish had been disseminating negative information about her. He purportedly threatened to post slanderous content on social media and disrupt her home life.

The complaint also cites that actors Mahesh Guru and Swarnalatha (Rannayak), purportedly influenced by Harish, made disparaging online comments about Pushpalatha, harming her reputation.

On 15 August 2025, Pushpalatha and the director of the film, Shriraj Ravari, allegedly received threatening calls from Harish Arasu, Manu, Nitin, and others whose identities remain unconfirmed.

Through her complaint, Pushpalatha urges the High Grounds Police Station to pursue legal action against Harish Arasu, Manu, Nitin, Mahesh Guru, and Swarnalatha (Rannayak) for offenses including cheating, criminal intimidation, defamation, and conspiracy.

This case has garnered attention within the Kannada film sector due to the implicated individuals and the substantial funds reportedly misused for film promotion. Authorities are anticipated to initiate investigations, likely summoning all involved to provide statements.