With four major releases, Mithra Mandali, Telusu Kada, K-Ramp, and Dude (Telugu dubbed), set to battle it out this Diwali, the festive box office has turned into a lively but tense arena. But while competition is expected, Mithra Mandali’s producer Bunny Vas alleges that things have taken an uglier turn online.

At the film’s pre-release event in Hyderabad on Monday evening, Bunny Vas delivered a fiery speech condemning what he called “negative, planned campaigns” aimed at tarnishing Mithra Mandali’s image. “It’s fine to have competition, but it should be righteous. I’ve seen hundreds of negative comments on our posts, not from the public, but from those paid to spread hate,” he said.

The producer revealed that he had even filed a complaint with the Cyber Crime department, leading to three arrests after an initial investigation. While he didn’t name any particular rival production, his comments clearly hinted at tensions brewing among the Diwali releases. “I want to tell those people, I fear no one. My film will speak for itself. If your strategy is to pull others down, you’ll fall flat on your face,” Vas said, visibly emotional.

In a lighter moment, he also quipped, “If you’re trolling, at least charge more, don’t sell your positive energy for cheap negativity.” His remarks have since gone viral, sparking online debates about who might be behind the alleged smear campaign.

Despite the controversy, Vas struck a conciliatory note, adding, “Four films are releasing this Diwali, I genuinely hope all do well. A good film will find its audience, a bad one won’t. The audience decides, not us.”

Mithra Mandali, which has already completed its censor formalities and earned a U/A certificate, is a feel-good buddy comedy about friendship, loyalty, and growing up. The film stars Priyadarshi and Niharika NM in lead roles, supported by Vishnu Oi, Rag Mayur, Prasad Behara, Vennela Kishore, Satya, and VTV Ganesh, with a special appearance by Brahmanandam.

Presented by Bunny Vas under BV Works, and produced by Kalyan Manthena, Bhanu Pratap, and Dr Vijayendra Reddy Teegala, the film features music by RR Dhruvan and cinematography by Siddharth SJ.

Mithra Mandali hits theatres on October 16, with paid premieres on October 15, promising a warm, humorous start to the festive season.