During this week, there has been a running discourse on internet spaces like X (formerly Twitter) about Arshad Warsi’s recent comments on Kalki 2898 AD. In his appearance on Unfiltered with Samdish, Arshad Warsi inadvertently stirred controversy when he criticised Prabhas’ character of Bhairava in the recently released sci-fi action film, Kalki 2898 AD. Reacting on the issue, MAA (Movie Artists Association Telugu) President Manchu Vishnu wrote to CINETAA President Poonam Dhillon and said, “In today's age of social media, where every word can quickly escalate into widespread debate, it is crucial that we, as public figures, exercise caution in our expressions. Words have power, and they can either build bridges or create rifts.”
Many celebrities like Nani, Siddhu Jonnalagadda, Sharwanand and fans of the actor responded strongly to Arshad Warsi’s comments, which said, “Prabhas, I am really sad, why was he… he was like a joker. Why? I want to see a Mad Max. I want to see Mel Gibson over there. Tumne usko kya bana dia yaar. Kyu karte ho aisa? Mujhe nahin samajh mein aata (What have you made of it? Why do they do such things? I never understand),” Manchu Vishnu, acting as president, further urged to exercise more caution and added, “Request that Mr. Arshad Warsi be advised to refrain from making such remarks about fellow actors in the future.”
The row, which started as a personal opinion, soon blew over into a Bollywood Vs South cinema debate. Netizens have been actively attacking and trolling each other. Arshad Warsi has yet to respond to the issue. Meanwhile, Manchu Vishnu is coming with Kannappa which is set to be a pan-Indian release in December. The makers are yet to announce a release date.
