Telugu Actor Sivaji Apologises For Misogynistic Comments
Several stars from the Telugu film industry had condemned his statements
Telugu actor Sivaji has come forward to apologise for a comment he made about women actors in his industry. The actor, who played the central villain in Court, had addressed the audience while praising the female host for wearing a saree to an event. Along with a short video clip on X, the actor wrote, “I sincerely apologise for my words during the Dhandoraa pre-release event last night. @itsmaatelugu.” (SIC)
His comments during this event had led to widespread backlash from the industry and the audience alike. After this comment, the actor is said to have ranted about women and how they must dress, talking about the host of the event. When translated from Telugu, the actor is said to have commented, “I request heroines not to wear revealing outfits. Please wear sarees that cover the body fully. Beauty lies in complete attire or a saree, not in displaying assets.”
A group of Telugu actors had come together to disregard his comment and his apology on Monday can be seen a response to the widespread response to his statement.
In the emotional video, he said he had no intention to say something that would be interpreted in this manner and what he had wanted to say was with good intentions. He also regretted the way a few words slipped out of his mouth during the speech.”
Meanwhile, the Telangana State Commission for Women issued summons to Sivaji over his derogatory comments on women, according to reports. The actor has been directed to appear before the Commission on December 27.
Among the people who took to social media to criticise his statement included members of the film industry such as director Ram Gopal Varma, actors Lakshmi Manchu, Manchu Manoj, and Anasuya Bharadwaj. While a few of them called him out for his statements, others spoke up about women’s freedom and agency and the misogyny that was widespread in their industry.