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A day after Vels Studios and Entertainment Private Limited (Jolly Wood Studios & Adventures), where the reality show Bigg Boss Kannada was being shot, was seized for violations of environmental regulations, Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar Wednesday instructed the deputy commissioner of Bengaluru South to reopen the premises.
The closure of Jolly Wood studios turned political after the Janata Dal (Secular) alleged that the closure was done at the behest of Shivakumar. A video of his remarks in March at the 16th Bengaluru International Film Festival 2025 went viral, in which he expressed his disappointment that the film fraternity did not participate in the Mekedatu Padayatra. The Congress launched the foot march to demand the implementation of the Mekedatu project across the Cauvery River.
“I know where to tighten the nuts and bolts to ensure cooperation from the industry,” Shivakumar can be heard saying in the video.
In a post on X Wednesday, Shivakumar said, “I have directed the Deputy Commissioner of Bengaluru South District to lift the seal on Jollywood premises in Bidadi, where Bigg Boss Kannada is being filmed. While environmental compliance remains a top priority, the studio will be given time to address violations in accordance with the norms set by the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board”.
“I remain committed to supporting the Kannada entertainment industry, while also upholding our responsibility toward environmental protection,” he added.
The contestants, who were shifted to a resort following the closure, may be brought back to the studio Thursday.
Yeshwanth V Gurukar, Deputy Commissioner, Bengaluru South District, said Vel Studios has sought 10 days to comply with all the directions.
Kiccha Sudeep, who is the host of Bigg Boss Kannada, “sincerely” thanked Shivakumar for the “timely support”.
“Also want to thank the concerned authorities for acknowledging that #BBK was not involved or was a part of the recent chaos or disturbances. I truely appreciate the DCM for promptly responding to my call, and thank #Nalpad, for his dedicated efforts. #BBK12 is here to stay,” he said in a post on X.
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