Celebrated Director Faces Backlash Over Religious Remarks
Renowned filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli finds himself at the center of a growing controversy following comments he allegedly made about Lord Hanuman during a recent promotional event. The incident occurred at the 'Globe Trotter' festival in Hyderabad, organized to build anticipation for the upcoming film 'Varanasi' starring Mahesh Babu.
Police Complaint Filed Amid Growing Tensions
According to official reports from ANI, an organization called 'Vanara Sena' has formally filed a complaint with Hyderabad police regarding the director's remarks. The complaint was submitted at Saroornagar police station on Tuesday, alleging that Rajamouli's comments constituted an insult to the deity and hurt Hindu religious sentiments.
Police authorities confirmed receiving the complaint but emphasized that no formal case has been registered yet. "We have received a complaint, but the investigation is ongoing," a police officer stated to ANI. Officials are currently examining the legal aspects of the complaint before proceeding with any formal action.
Technical Glitch Precedes Controversial Remark
The controversial incident unfolded during a high-profile event attended by thousands of fans, including many who had traveled from various countries specifically for the occasion. The program featured the much-anticipated release of the teaser, title, and first look of Mahesh Babu's film 'Varanasi'.
Sources indicate that Rajamouli's comment came during a brief technical interruption that temporarily halted the show. While the exact context and wording of the remark remain unclear, it has sparked widespread discussion across social media platforms and news outlets. The director's true intentions and the precise nature of his comment will only become clear once the police investigation concludes.
Star-Studded Varanasi Faces Unexpected Controversy
The controversy arrives at a crucial time for the 'Varanasi' film team, which has generated significant buzz with its impressive star cast. The project features Mahesh Babu, Prithviraj Sukumaran, and Priyanka Chopra in pivotal roles, with Chopra playing Mandakini and Sukumaran portraying Kumbha.
Scheduled for a Pongal 2027 release, the film now faces unexpected challenges as the production team navigates the fallout from the controversy. Industry observers note that such developments could potentially impact the film's promotional strategy and public reception, though the long-term effects remain uncertain.
As the investigation continues, both fans and critics await further clarification about the exact nature of Rajamouli's comments and whether they were misinterpreted or taken out of context. The incident highlights the sensitive nature of religious sentiments in Indian cinema and the careful balance public figures must maintain when discussing matters of faith.
