Eddelu Manjunatha 2, the final project of the late filmmaker Guruprasad, was in progress at the time of his tragic decision to end his life, reportedly due to escalating financial difficulties. The film is scheduled for theatrical release on February 21. It was produced with financial contributions from various sources, with Mysore Ramesh recognized as the principal producer, having covered nearly 80% of the production costs. A dispute has arisen with Guruprasad’s widow, Sumithra, who claims she is owed unpaid dues for his roles as writer, actor, and director, prompting her to file an injunction to prevent the film's release.

In light of the injunction, Ramesh and the other investors have resolved that, regardless of whether the stay is lifted, they will not proceed with the theatrical release at this time. They have announced their intention to release the film in honor of Guruprasad’s 100th birth anniversary. Given that Guruprasad passed away at the age of 52, this would mean a delay of nearly fifty years before the film is made available. A week following this announcement, Ramesh has reiterated his position, indicating no intention to alter his decision.

Eddelu Manjunatha 2 for Guruprasad's 100th birth anniversary or...

Ramesh has expressed that he will only release Eddelu Manjunatha 2 in conjunction with Guruprasad's centenary celebration. However, he has stated that if any party is interested in purchasing the rights from him and the other investors to facilitate an earlier release, he would not oppose it. In a conversation with Yashas Talkies, Ramesh conveyed his willingness to absorb the total loss of his investment in Eddelu Manjunatha 2, emphasizing that he refuses to be 'deceived.' He firmly stated that there will be no compromise with Sumithra, asserting, “If someone in Karnataka is prepared to pay Sumithra Rs 1.5 crore (Rs 1 crore for directing and Rs 50 lakh for acting) and settle all investor claims, they may proceed with the film's release. We shall see how many individuals are willing to step forward for that.”

Sumithra Guruprasad vs Mysore Ramesh: the backdrop

The conflict between the producer and Sumithra emerged after he publicly announced that 51% of the film's profits would be allocated to her. He argued that when Guruprasad passed away, the film was still undergoing post-production and required an additional investment of 35-40 lakh for its completion, which he agreed to provide during a meeting at the Karnataka State Film Chamber of Commerce. He stated that upon the film's release, he would recoup this latest investment, which exceeds his initial payment of 40 lakh to Guruprasad, and subsequently distribute the profits among the other stakeholders.

Sumithra is reported to have consented to these conditions; however, she later began to demand payments, asserting that there were outstanding dues for her late husband's roles as a writer, actor, and director. Following Ramesh's refusal to meet these demands, she obtained a court order to halt the film's release..

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