Tamannaah Appointed as Mysore Sandal Brand Ambassador; Karnataka MP Issues Warning

The Karnataka government recently appointed prominent actress Tamannaah Bhatia as the brand ambassador for Mysore Sandal and Sandalwood products. However, the decision has sparked strong opposition within the state, particularly from members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), who argue that a local actress should have been selected for the role instead.

Leading the criticism is Member of Parliament Krishnadatta Odeyar, who voiced sharp objections to the appointment. He stated that Tamannaah Bhatia does not speak Kannada and should not serve as the brand ambassador. “If Tamannaah continues in this role, it will lead to serious consequences,” warned Krishnadatta Odeyar.

He also expressed discontent that a non-Kannada actress was chosen as the face of the Mysore Sandal brand, a company established in 1916 by his ancestor, Krishnaraja Odeyar. “How can someone from outside Karnataka represent a company so deeply tied to our heritage?” he questioned.

Public sentiment in Karnataka also appears to be largely critical of the decision. Several citizens have expressed anger over the state allocating ₹6.2 crore to appoint someone unfamiliar with the Kannada language, culture, and traditions. Many argue that the role of brand ambassador should be reserved for someone who embodies the cultural ethos of Karnataka.

The controversy surrounding Tamannaah Bhatia’s appointment has rapidly become a major talking point across Karnataka.