The Kannada film industry and fans of superstar Darshan woke up to a rude shock this morning.
The 'Challenging' Star, as he is popularly known as, was taken into custody by the police for assaulting his wife, Vijayalakshmi.
Darshan has been accused of threatening his wife and three year old son Vineesh at gun point following an argument between the couple. The incident took place at Vijayalakshmi's friend Vidya's Vijayanagar residence in Bangalore late last night.
After registering a complaint with the police, Vijayalakshmi was admitted to a hospital. She is said to have injuries on her legs, hands and head. She was discharged at 4.30 pm.
Senior actor Ambareesh, who visited her, said it was a family matter and the couple had decided to resolve the issue and were ready for a compromise. It is also learnt that he has assured Vijayalakshmi that such incidents would not take place again. Apparently, she has promised to listen to Ambareesh.
Even as a compromise angle is surfacing, stories of Vijayalakshmi's conditions for Darshan are doing the rounds. She is said to have demanded that he should not use the gun to threaten their son or her. She has also demanded that she be allowed to lead her life on her terms and that she is ready for a divorce, if that's what Darshan seeks. Darshan is said to have agreed to these demands. However, there is no confirmation in this regard.
Darshan is due to be presented in the Magistrate Court judge's residence at Koramangala this evening. Vijayalakshmi is also expected to be present, and withdraw the compliant. Darshan has been booked for assault, attempt to murder, dowry and domestic violence. Most of these charges are non bailable. However, Vijayalakshmi's statements will be considered before taking the final decision.
Fan frenzy
Fans were waiting near Vijaynagar police station and the Magistrate court from morning hoping to catch a glimpse of the actor. Some of them turned violent and stoned three busses while demanding the release of the actor.
Meanwhile, an altercation between the media and lawyers also took place at the court premises. The lawyers attacked media persons and broke cameras as they felt that they were being disturbed by the media contingent that was waiting for Darshan.
Background
The rift in the seven year marriage of Darshan-Vijayalakshmi is not new. It is said that the two have been having differences for months now. While the reasons for the misunderstandings are not known, rumours of Darshan's 'affair' with his popular co-star Nikhita is being touted as the main reason, among other things.
Vijayalakshmi is said to have appealed to friends and seniors in the industry to advice Darshan, but she has never exhibited her displeasure in the open.
Darshan has bashed up many a baddie and stood up for the cause of women in his films. He is the hero of the masses and it is sad that the reel life hero has now turned real life villain.
