The other day, actor Divyabharathi publicly accused director Naresh Kuppili of misogynistic behaviour at the time of production on their Telugu feature film, GOAT. Talking about her experience on X this Wednesday, the actress not only criticised the director for allegedly addressing her with a derogatory word but also questioned the silence of her co-star Sudigali Sudheer. Her social media post ignites new discourse around workplace decorum and safety in cinema.

Divyabharathi posted a screenshot showing Naresh allegedly addressing her with a term, which literally means 'bird' but widely serves as a derogatory slang term for women in Telugu, and remarking that she fits only a "second lead" actor's role.

She asserted that such comments signify a sense of "deep-rooted misogyny" and not casual humour. She added that it is no "one-off incident" and that the "director followed the same pattern on set too, repeatedly disrespecting women and honestly, betraying the very art he claims to create."

The actress expressed her profound disappointment in Sudheer for his alleged non-intervention in the matter. "What disappointed me most was seeing the hero stay silent, allowing this culture to survive one more day," she stated.

Divyabharathi also emphasised her choice for better work environments. "I choose workspaces where women aren’t targets for mockery, where every voice matters, and where respect is non-negotiable. This is not just a choice — it’s my standard as an artist and as a woman!"

Netizens reacted to her allegations with a blend of criticism and support, with some alleging that she has recurrent conflicts with her colleagues. Divyabharathi clarified this, noting, "I’ve worked repeatedly with the same team, actors and crews in Tamil cinema with zero conflicts. Only this one director crossed lines and made disrespectful comments. He chose to make it public, and I have every right to respond!"

The actor works in Telugu and Tamil cinema; she presently stars in a web series titled Lingam and Madhil Mel Kaadha.