Recently, multiple online news outlets have suggested that Devara may have been inspired by the Karamchedu Massacre.
The lack of depth beyond this claim exposes a troubling absence of critical thinking. While cinema drawing from history is not inherently wrong, meaningful change will never happen as long as we remain indifferent to the content of our films and the messages they propagate.
The Karamchedu Massacre was a brutal, targeted attack on Dalits—an atrocity that inflicted lasting pain and devastation. It is unacceptable to discuss such events with casual detachment. We owe it to history, and to those who suffered, to approach these discussions with awareness, responsibility, and respect.
What happened?
On July 17, 1985, members of the Kamma caste launched a coordinated attack on local Dalits, with involvement from politically prominent figure Daggubati Chenchuramaiah. Six Dalit men were murdered, and three Dalit women were raped in this organized assault. Survivors were forced to flee to Chirala, where they resettled.
The resistance to this massacre led to the formation of the Dalit Mahasabha, a crucial movement in the fight for justice and dignity.
What can you do?
The Devara team has neither confirmed nor denied the alleged connection to the massacre. Meanwhile, lead actor Jr NTR—grandson of then-Chief Minister N.T. Rama Rao—has stated in interviews that audiences “shouldn’t think too deeply” about the movies they watch.
This attitude is precisely the problem. Cinema shapes narratives and public consciousness. As an audience, you hold the power to decide where your time and money go. Be intentional. Choose the films you support wisely.
To read more about the Karamchedu Massacre:
https://www.jstor.org/stable/4374659
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