The Kashmir Files director Vivek Agnihotri spoke about Sandeep Reddy Vanga recently and said the Animal director is his alter ego. Vivek defended Sadeep’s films and said that he has a right to tell stories from his point-of-view.
In an interview with Humans of Bombay, Vivek spoke in support of Sandeep and said, “Sandeep Reddy Vanga is more like my alter ego in the industry. Just like me, he speaks fearlessly. People question Sandeep Reddy Vanga for toxic masculinity, but what is really happening in the society? Isn’t it the truth? Does your society respect women? It is just his storytelling. He is showing the world to the people from his point of view."
He added, “I am not claiming that I believe in Vanga. I am just saying he has the right to tell stories from his point of view. People who are abusing him, are also using their right. But, at the end of the day, he is laughing looking at his bank.”
Both Sandeep and Vivek’s films have invited polarising reactions from the audience. While Sandeep was criticised for the glorification of hyper-masculine, misogynistic characters in Kabir Singh and Animal, Vivek has been called-out for manipulating facts and presenting a one-sided narrative with his films. His films have often been regarded as propaganda.
Earlier, Saiyaara director Mohit Suri had thanked Sandeep for supporting his film. “I’ve always respected the raw emotion, fearlessness and intensity you bring to your stories. It reminds me why we do what we do to move people, to connect. Grateful to walk this path alongside storytellers like you. Here's to more powerful cinema and always a fan,” he wrote on social media.
Meanwhile on the work front, Vivek next film, The Bengal Files will be released on September 5. Sandeep has Prabhas and Triptii Dimri starrer Spirit in the pipeline.