Sanjay Dutt Criticizes Director Lokesh Over 'Leo' Role, Praises South Stars
Sanjay Dutt Slams 'Leo' Director, Hails South Cinema

Sanjay Dutt grabbed everyone's attention with his blunt comments about his role in Thalapathy Vijay's blockbuster film 'Leo.' The actor spoke openly at a promotional event in Chennai after the movie's release. He did not soften his words when discussing the script and his character.

Dutt's Disappointment with 'Leo' Role

Sanjay Dutt expressed clear frustration with director Lokesh Kanagaraj during the Chennai event. He stated he felt angry because Lokesh did not give him a bigger role in the film. Dutt believed the director wasted his potential in the project.

"I am angry at Lokesh because he did not give me a big role. He wasted me," Dutt told the audience directly from the stage. He played Antony Das, the father of Vijay's character and one of the main antagonists in 'Leo.'

Praise for South Indian Cinema Legends

Despite his criticism of the 'Leo' role, Sanjay Dutt showered praise on South Indian cinema and its iconic stars. He expressed deep respect for legendary actors Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan, calling them his seniors.

"I respect Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan; they are my seniors. I look up to them and learn from them," Dutt said warmly. He also spoke highly of his experience working with Thalapathy Vijay on the set of 'Leo.'

The actor shared his admiration for multiple South Indian stars:

  • He declared his love for Ajith Kumar, mentioning they are close friends
  • He revealed he has watched several of Rajinikanth's films
  • He expressed excitement about watching Rajinikanth's upcoming film 'Coolie'
  • He plans to watch Kamal Haasan's 'Thug Life' as well

Vijay's Legal Challenges and 'Jana Nayagan' Update

While Sanjay Dutt shared his thoughts on 'Leo,' Vijay himself faces significant legal attention. The Central Bureau of Investigation questioned the actor-turned-politician on January 12 regarding the Karur stampede case.

The questioning lasted nearly six hours at the CBI headquarters. Vijay arrived at 11:29 AM and departed around 6:15 PM after officials completed their formalities. Investigators indicated they would call him back for further clarification, but Vijay requested another date due to Pongal celebrations.

A crowd of supporters gathered outside the CBI office during the questioning session. The investigation focuses on a rally held on September 27 by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam in Karur district, Tamil Nadu, where 41 people lost their lives and more than 60 others suffered injuries.

Supreme Court Battle Over 'Jana Nayagan'

Vijay's upcoming film 'Jana Nayagan' now faces legal hurdles regarding its certification. The producer has approached the Supreme Court after a division bench of the Madras High Court stayed an earlier single bench order related to CBFC certification.

The film was originally scheduled for release on January 9, 2026. The makers have engaged senior Supreme Court lawyers ahead of a widely reported January 21 hearing to resolve the certification issue. This legal battle adds another layer of complexity to Vijay's current challenges.

Sanjay Dutt's remarks at the Chennai event highlighted the complex dynamics of film collaborations. His disappointment with one specific role contrasted sharply with his genuine admiration for the broader South Indian film community. Meanwhile, Vijay navigates both legal scrutiny and production challenges for his upcoming projects.