Chaplin Statue Finds Home near Bangalore
Times of India
BANGALORE, Mar 21: Finally, The Tramp has found a home near Bangalore. The Charlie Chaplin statue was mired in a controversy as some Hindu outfits objected
to it on the grounds that Chaplin was a Christian. But now the 67-foot-tall statue of the great comedian will be installed at Innovative Film City, just off Bidadi, in 45 to 60 days’ time.
Film-maker Hemanth Hegde told reporters on Friday that Innovative Film City had offered to install the statue. “Government officials said it would take at least four months to clear the proposal if it is government land. They said the procedures take that kind of time. I have to release my film soon, I couldn’t wait. That is why I accepted Innovative’s offer.”
Rajesh Exports, a private firm, has offered to bear the cost of building and installing the statue, estimated at around Rs 30 lakh. Company officials told reporters they had been approached by Hemanth Hegde to help the artist fraternity. “We thought it would be a good contribution to the art heritage of the city. In the interest of art and state tourism, we have decided to sponsor the statue,” they said.
The statue will be built in Bangalore and sculptors will begin work soon. It will sport the look of The Tramp with his bowler hat and walking stick. Once installed, a decision would be taken to open it to public viewing.
Hegde said there was no question of giving into any vigilante group as art and artistes knew no religion. “It is sad Baindur will not have it, but we also think we want people to come and look at him. The best place would be where tourists come. That is why Bangalore suits us.”