Complaint filed against Bigg Boss Kannada fame Rajath Kishan over smoking a cigarette in social media video at the Mysuru heritage site

A formal complaint has been filed against Bigg Boss Kannada fame Rajath Kishan after a reel showing him smoking a cigarette in front of a heritage building in Mysuru triggered widespread outrage on social media and among local activists.

The complaint was submitted at the Lakshmipuram Police Station by members of a local pro-Kannada organisation, demanding that authorities register a case against the actor for allegedly violating public smoking rules and misusing a heritage location for a stylised social media shoot. The complainants have also questioned whether permission was taken to film at the site.

The controversial reel shows Rajath arriving in a car, stepping out in a dramatic, cinematic style and holding a cigarette while posing with the old Deputy Commissioner’s Office building in the background. The structure is considered a significant heritage landmark in the cultural capital of Karnataka. Activists argue that such visuals disrespect the historical importance of the site and normalise unlawful behaviour in public spaces.




The video quickly went viral, drawing sharp criticism from netizens. Several users called out the actor for allegedly flouting the ban on smoking in public places and for using a culturally sensitive backdrop to create content meant to appear edgy. Many also pointed out that public figures carry added responsibility as their actions influence young followers.

This is not the first time Rajath Kishan has found himself in trouble over social media content. The latest episode comes close on the heels of his earlier controversy involving a photoshoot reel where he was seen wielding a machete. That incident had reportedly led to police action and legal scrutiny, putting the actor under the spotlight for risky and provocative online behaviour.

Following the fresh complaint, local groups have urged the police to take strict action, stating that repeated controversies involving the same individual send a wrong message and undermine respect for law and heritage. They have also demanded guidelines and enforcement against filming reels at public and heritage locations without due permission.

Police officials are said to be examining the contents of the reel and the complaint to determine whether any laws were violated, including regulations related to public smoking and filming at protected or sensitive sites. As of now, no official statement has been issued on whether an FIR has been registered.

The controversy has reignited debate over the growing trend of sensational social media reels, the responsibility of celebrities in shaping public behaviour, and the need to protect heritage spaces from being used as backdrops for potentially unlawful or insensitive content.