The controversy surrounding veteran Telugu actor Rajendra Prasad’s remarks about late actor-politician MG Ramachandran (MGR) has drawn reactions from members of the South Indian film industry. Actors Vishal and Nassar have now publicly expressed their disappointment and urged the veteran to apologise.

Rajendra Prasad had made the comments while praising the acting prowess of legendary Telugu star Kantha Rao at the Kalaprapurna Kantha Rao National Award–2025 ceremony in Hyderabad. However, the comparison involving MGR did not sit well with many, especially in Tamil Nadu, where the late actor-leader continues to be widely revered.

Reacting to the controversy, Vishal said he was “shocked and repelled” by the remarks. Addressing Rajendra Prasad respectfully, the actor wrote that while praising Kantha Rao was “a lovely gesture", bringing down another legendary figure like MGR had hurt the sentiments of many.

“Dear sir, with utmost regards and at the same time with a heavy heart I pen down this tweet condemning your speech about our late legendary actor the one and only MGR, who has not only been a legendary actor but also a great leader in Tamil Nadu,” he said.

Vishal further added that MGR remains deeply loved by the public and urged Rajendra Prasad to resolve the issue appropriately. “I request you to kindly put an end to this in a way that you know best… My apologies to you for mentioning that you tender an apology for this issue since I, as an actor, would do the same if someone in the future speaks ill about an actor of your stature,” he wrote.

Through a video statement, actor Nassar also appealed to Rajendra Prasad to issue an apology, saying he was hurt by the comparison made with MGR.

“I saw the video of you praising the craft of Kantha Rao, sir. It is amazing to see an actor praising another actor. But I was hurt when you said something in comparison to the great actor, MGR sir,” Nassar said, adding that the remarks would hurt not only Tamilians but also colleagues from the industry.

Clarifying that he was speaking as a fellow member of the film fraternity and not in his official capacity as the president of the South Indian Actors’ Film Association, Nassar said, “Apolitically, we love and honour him. I am requesting you to tender an apology from your heart.”