On Monday night, senior actor Sivaji made controversial comments about the attire of Telugu actresses, stating that they should wear clothing that covers their bodies. He also suggested that beauty lies in traditional attire, like sarees, and criticised revealing outfits for not showcasing a woman's true beauty. These remarks were made at the pre-release event of his upcoming film Dhandoraa.
In response, playback singer and dubbing artist Chinmayi Sripaada took to social media to express her views. She criticised Sivaji for giving unsolicited advice to actresses, accusing him of using slurs like ‘daridrapu munda’ and making demeaning comments about women's bodies.
"Telugu Actor Sivaji doles out unnecessary advice to Actresses using slurs like ‘Daridrapu Munda’ saying they need to wear Saris to cover their ‘Saamaan’ - a word incels use. Actor Shivaji played a villain in a fantastic film and end up becoming the hero for incel boys. The point is - these are professional spaces where Shivaji is using words like ‘Daridrapu Munda’,” she said.
She continued, “He himself wears Jeans and Hoodie. He should wear only Dhotis and follow Indian culture. Wear bottu and if he is married wear the Kankanam and Mettelu to signify he is married. Unbelievable how women are treated here. Just unbelievable,” said the playback singer.
TV host and actress Anasuya Bharadwaj also responded to Sivaji’s comments. While she did not directly name him, her tweet was clearly a reply to his remarks.
"In light of recent comments made about how women ‘should’ dress.. here’s a reminder: Some people confuse control with concern, and judgment with ‘protection.’ A woman’s clothing is her personal choice. It harms no one, and it’s not meant for anyone. What truly harms is unsolicited comments, looks, and opinions. Turning insecurity into moral policing doesn’t make you protective.. it just makes you controlling. Respect doesn’t require supervision. Controlling others is weakness disguised as strength. Real power lies in respect," Anasuya tweeted.