Bengaluru, October 9, 2025 – In a swift intervention that averted a major crisis for Kannada television's flagship reality show, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar directed authorities to lift the seal on the Bigg Boss Kannada studio in Bidadi late Wednesday, allowing production to resume just hours later. The move came after the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) shut down the Vels Studios premises on Tuesday for flouting environmental norms, forcing contestants to relocate to a nearby resort.
The sealing of Jollywood Studios – operated by Vels Studios and Entertainment Pvt Ltd – disrupted filming for Bigg Boss Kannada Season 12, which has been drawing millions of viewers since its launch last month. Bengaluru South district officials, acting on KSPCB orders, locked the gates around 10 p.m. on October 7, citing the studio's operation without mandatory environmental clearances.
Violations at the Heart of the Shutdown
The KSPCB's closure notice pinpointed several lapses, including the absence of consent to operate under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act and Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act – a prerequisite for any industrial or commercial activity. Key issues included an inoperative Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) with a 250 KLD capacity, inadequate solid waste management, and repeated failure to apply for clearances despite prior notices. The board emphasized that these violations contravened guidelines from the Supreme Court and National Green Tribunal (NGT), underscoring broader concerns over unregulated development in industrial areas like Bidadi.
KSPCB Member Secretary S.S. Lingaraju clarified that the action targeted the studio as the land's occupier, which also houses an amusement park and hotel rooms, and was not aimed at the ongoing Bigg Boss production. "We were unaware of the specific show; this is about compliance for the entire facility," Lingaraju stated.
Shivakumar Steps In: Balancing Industry and Environment
Responding to urgent appeals from the production team, Shivakumar – who holds the Bengaluru Urban Development portfolio – convened a late-night meeting with district officials on October 8. He instructed Bengaluru South Deputy Commissioner to revoke the seal, posting on X: "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."
The Deputy CM struck a conciliatory tone, affirming, "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." He reiterated his support for the Kannada entertainment sector, adding, "I remain committed to supporting the Kannada entertainment industry, while also upholding our responsibility toward environmental protection." The studio has requested a 10-day window to rectify the issues, which authorities have tentatively approved.
By 3 a.m. on Thursday, October 9, a team of district officials, KSPCB representatives, and police arrived at the site to reopen the premises. Contestants and crew were swiftly transported back from the temporary resort in Bidadi, with filming resuming by mid-morning. Producers confirmed no episodes would be missed, averting potential scheduling chaos for the high-stakes show hosted by superstar Kichcha Sudeep.
Gratitude from Sudeep and the Team, Amid Political Whispers
Kichcha Sudeep, the iconic host of Bigg Boss Kannada, was quick to express his relief and thanks on X, writing: "A big thank you to Shri @DKShivakumar sir for the timely support and prompt response to my call. Grateful to the authorities for acknowledging that Bigg Boss Kannada was not involved in the recent chaos or disturbances." He also shouted out "#Nalpad for the dedicated efforts" and declared, "#BBK12 is here to stay!" The post, which garnered thousands of likes within hours, highlighted the production's innocence in the violations.
The show's makers echoed Sudeep's sentiments, issuing a statement praising Shivakumar's "decisive action" and committing to full compliance. "We appreciate the understanding shown and will work round-the-clock to meet all environmental standards," a spokesperson said.
However, the episode hasn't escaped political scrutiny. Janata Dal (Secular) leaders alleged the initial sealing was influenced by Shivakumar, drawing parallels to his March remarks at the Bengaluru International Film Festival, where he vowed to "tighten the nuts and bolts" on the industry over its silence on the Congress-led Mekedatu Padayatra for the Cauvery River project. Shivakumar dismissed the claims, focusing instead on his dual mandate of growth and sustainability.
Looking Ahead: Compliance Deadline Looms
As Bigg Boss Kannada barrels toward its finale, the studio faces a tight deadline to overhaul its infrastructure – from reactivating the STP to implementing robust waste protocols. Environmental activists have welcomed Shivakumar's intervention but urged stricter monitoring, warning that leniency could set a precedent for other non-compliant facilities in Karnataka's booming entertainment hub.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the tightrope walk between nurturing cultural industries and enforcing green laws in a state where Bengaluru's creative economy rivals its tech prowess. With the show back on track, fans can breathe easy – but the spotlight on sustainability isn't dimming anytime soon.
This story is developing, with KSPCB expected to submit a compliance report by October 19.
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