A fresh controversy has erupted in the South Indian film industry, centering on director Mohan G's upcoming project 'Draupathi 2' and singer Chinmayi Sripada. The dispute, which began on social media, involves accusations of casteism, conflicting principles, and the ethical responsibilities of film technicians versus creators.
The Spark: Chinmayi's Apology and Accusations
The firestorm ignited after the release of the first single, 'Emkoney,' sung by Chinmayi. Following the song's launch, the acclaimed playback singer faced accusations on social media for allegedly participating in a film perceived as casteist. In response, Chinmayi issued a public apology via a social media post.
She clarified that she was unaware the song she recorded was intended for 'Draupathi 2.' She emphatically stated, "I would never have worked on a film that goes against my principles." This apology, however, instead of quelling the flames, poured fuel on the fire, becoming the primary catalyst for director Mohan G's forceful public rebuttal.
Mohan G's Defense: Condemning the 'Targeting' of Technicians
Reacting strongly to Chinmayi's statement, Mohan G took to his X (formerly Twitter) account to present his side. He strongly condemned the practice of blaming technicians, singers, or actors associated with a film for its content.
"It is not appropriate to blame technicians, singers, or actors working on the film; if there is a target, it should be on creators like me," he asserted. Mohan G argued that since the ideas and vision in his films are solely his own, targeting the artists and crew who work on them is a "cowardly" act. This defense of his film's workforce formed the core of his initial video explanation as well.
Director Counters: Questioning the 'Conflict of Principle'
In a detailed follow-up video, Mohan G directly challenged Chinmayi's claims. He revealed that it was Chinmayi herself who agreed to sing 'Emkoney' after he, being a long-time admirer of her voice, requested composer Ghibran to approach her. He believed her voice was perfect to bring the song to life.
The director expressed that while he anticipated criticism upon the song's release, he was "shocked" by Chinmayi's apology, which was issued without seeking any clarification from him first. He specifically addressed her mention of a "conflict of principle."
In a pointed query, Mohan G asked, "I believe in the existence of God; Chinmayi also never spoke against God. Her name is Sripada, meaning the feet of God. So what is the difference between my doctrine and her doctrine?" This rhetorical question was aimed at debunking the alleged ideological clash cited in her apology.
The Fallout and Demand for Clarity
Mohan G suggested that external pressures might have led to the release of Chinmayi's apology. He voiced concern that such explanations could potentially damage the commercial prospects of his film, which is in its final stages of production.
Consequently, he has insisted that Chinmayi provide clear answers. He demands clarity on two fronts: the precise reason for her apology and details about any alleged pressure that led to the recording's release. With 'Draupathi 2' nearing completion, this public clash between the director and the singer has now become the central narrative overshadowing the film's promotional activities.
The controversy highlights the increasingly complex intersection of art, personal ethics, and social accountability in Indian cinema, where off-screen debates often dominate the discourse around a film's release.
