Telugu actor and politician Nandamuri Balakrishna is under fire after a video showing him pushing actor Anjali at a pre-release event for her upcoming film Gangs of Godavari surfaced online. Balakrishna was the chief guest at the event, which also stars Vishwak Sen and Neha Shetty. The widely-shared video, which quickly gained traction on social media platforms like Reddit, shows Balakrishna pushing Anjali after she seemingly did not hear him on stage.
Anjali’s and Neha Shetty’s Reactions
Despite Anjali’s lighthearted reaction, where she laughed off the incident and even high-fived Balakrishna afterwards, her co-star Neha Shetty appeared visibly shocked. The context of what Balakrishna said to Anjali before pushing her remains unclear. Anjali, known for her roles in films like Angaadi Theru, Engaeyum Eppothum, Seethamma Vakitlo Sirimalle Chettu, and Geethanjali, seemed to take the incident sportingly, but the video has sparked outrage among netizens.
Social Media Backlash
Netizens have criticized Balakrishna’s behavior, labeling it as disrespectful towards women. Comments on social media reflect the public’s anger, with one user saying, “It’s crazy how so many people give him a free pass by saying sht like ‘it’s just balayya.’” Another remarked, “A talented actress treated like sht.” Additionally, some pointed out Balakrishna’s history of controversy, with one user commenting, “It’s insane how a #MeToo accused by multiple women is still considered a star and getting multiple offers. He is a repeat offender.”
Hansal Mehta’s Reaction
Filmmaker Hansal Mehta also condemned Balakrishna’s actions on his social media account. Sharing a clip of the incident, Mehta wrote, “Who is this scumbag?” When a netizen tried to defend Balakrishna, Mehta responded harshly, calling him “Scumbag x100.”
Balakrishna’s Reputation and Past Incidents
Balakrishna’s peers have often discussed his anger issues. Director KS Ravikumar, who worked with Balakrishna on Jai Simha, mentioned an incident during a press meeting where Balakrishna almost hit an assistant director over a misunderstanding. Ravikumar had to intervene to prevent the situation from escalating. Balakrishna has a reputation for his short temper, which has been a topic of concern among industry insiders.
Comments on Son’s Career
At the same event, Balakrishna expressed his desire for his son, Mokshagna, not to follow in his footsteps, despite his fans’ possible disappointment. He mentioned that Mokshagna will be making his debut soon and emphasized his support for his son to carve his own path in the industry. Balakrishna, known for his recent hits Akhanda and Veerasimha Reddy, plans to collaborate with director Boyapati Srinu for Akhanda 2.