Ravi Teja has found himself at the centre of an online controversy after a remark he made to his young co-star Nakshathra CM at the pre-release event of Irumudi drew criticism on social media. A video from the event has been circulating widely, with viewers divided over the Telugu phrase used by the actor and its intended meaning.
The exchange took place when Nakshathra, who plays Ravi Teja’s daughter in the film, asked him to suggest a nickname for her. In response, the actor used the phrase “Muduru munda”. The expression was interpreted by several social media users as derogatory and inappropriate, particularly because it was directed at a child.
The conversation drew further attention when Nakshathra admitted that she did not know what the phrase meant. Ravi Teja reportedly laughed and told her, “I’ll tell you later.” The clip subsequently prompted criticism from sections of the internet, with users questioning the choice of language and whether such a remark was appropriate at a public event involving a young actor.
The controversy has also led to a debate over the word itself. While some Telugu-speaking users have described the phrase as insulting, others have argued that “munda” can have different connotations depending on the context in which it is used. A section of users also pointed out that the word has appeared in Telugu literary works and should not automatically be interpreted as a vulgar expression.
The disagreement has consequently shifted from Ravi Teja’s specific remark to a broader discussion about language, context and how certain Telugu words are perceived in contemporary usage. The fact that the exchange involved a child, however, has remained a key point of criticism among those objecting to the actor’s comment.
The incident comes as Ravi Teja gears up for the release of Irumudi, directed by Shiva Nirvana. Also starring Priya Bhavani Shankar, Sai Kumar and Nakshathra CM, the film has music by GV Prakash Kumar. The emotional action drama, slated to hit theatres on August 21, revolves around a troubled alcoholic father who attempts to turn his life around after his young daughter asks him to undertake an Ayyappa Deeksha.
