Did Rajinikanth’s committee choose Tamannaah Bhatia?

The controversy surrounding Tamannaah Bhatia’s appointment as the brand ambassador for Mysore Sandal Soap has intensified in Karnataka. Several Kannada and pro-Karnataka groups have questioned why a non-Kannadiga actress was selected when the state has nationally recognized faces like Deepika Padukone and Rashmika Mandanna.

Responding to the growing backlash, Karnataka minister MB Patil issued a clarification. He revealed that the government had formed a selection committee a few months ago to finalize the brand ambassador. According to him, the panel included prominent personalities, including superstar Rajinikanth, and the decision to choose Tamannaah Bhatia was made after detailed discussions.

The minister stated that Deepika Padukone was also considered. However, her remuneration reportedly exceeded the government’s budget. Additionally, her association with her own beauty brand was cited as another reason for not proceeding with her name. Rashmika Mandanna, Sreeleela, and a few other actresses were also evaluated, but they were said to be tied up with other brand commitments.

Tamannaah Bhatia was eventually finalized, but the move has sparked debate, with critics arguing that Karnataka has several homegrown stars who enjoy pan-India popularity. Supporters of the decision, however, maintain that the selection was made based on practical and commercial considerations.