Theatres attacked before 'Kaththi' release; five arrested

Chennai: Amid opposition to the release of Vijay-starrer 'Kaththi' (knife) from some pro-Tamil groups, two cinema theatres here, where the film is scheduled to be released tomorrow, were vandalised by unidentified persons. Police said five persons were today arrested in connection with the attacks last night.

All the five persons belong to Thanthai Periyar Dravida Kazhagam (TDPK), they said. Unidentified persons had pelted stones at Satyam theatre and Woodlands theatre here late last night, damaging property, including glass panes.

The attack was suspected to be the handiwork of Tamil groups opposed to the release of 'Kaththi', which, they allege, was produced by a person close to Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Thamizhaga Vaazhvurimai Katchi president Velmurugan told reporters that the producers of the film have accepted to remove the name 'Lyca' from the publicity material and hence they are withdrawing their opposition to the film.

If the name Lyca appeared in the film, they would continue their protests, he added. Actor Vijay earlier said all issues had been resolved with the producers heeding demands that their name be removed from the film's publicity material.

Vijay said the producers have accepted to remove their name from publicity material and thanked AIADMK supremo Jayalalithaa for her 'support.'

The actor's earlier film 'Thalaiva' had also faced pre-release protests from some fringe groups. Another film 'Thuppakki' also faced problems over portrayal of a particular community.