Karthi's apology to Pawan Kalyan sparks debate, netizens rally behind Meiyazhagan actor
While Pawan Kalyan took offence to the remark on "laddu", many fans and netizens have defended Karthi.
Karthi and Pawan Kalyan.
Karthi’s recent public apology to Andhra Pradesh’s Deputy Chief Minister and Telugu superstar Pawan Kalyan, over what appeared to be an innocent remark about "laddu," has ignited a social media storm. The comment, made during a promotional event for his film Meiyazhagan (Telugu version Satyam Sundaram), has led to mixed reactions online, with many fans rallying behind Karthi.
The controversy began when Karthi, while reacting to a meme featuring "laddu" at a promotional event, made a light-hearted remark, saying, "Laddu is a sensitive topic now, let's not talk about it." This comment referenced the ongoing political row in Andhra Pradesh regarding allegations that adulterated ghee containing animal fat was used to make the sacred Tirupati laddus. Pawan, who has led protests and even undertaken penance over the issue, took offence to Karthi's remark, issuing a stern warning to the film industry not to make light of sensitive issues.
In response, Karthi quickly issued a public apology on Twitter, stating, "Dear @PawanKalyan sir, with deep respects to you, I apologize for any unintended misunderstanding caused. As a humble devotee of Lord Venkateswara, I always hold our traditions dear."
While Karthi’s apology was meant to de-escalate the situation, many netizens feel it was unnecessary and are instead pointing fingers at the event organizers and the anchor for bringing up the "laddu" meme, knowing its political sensitivity. "It's not your fault, you handled it very well. The issue lies with the organizers who displayed the meme on Laddu at yesterday's event and the anchor who prolonged the conversation even after you respectfully declined," said a Twitter user.
Others echoed similar sentiments. "It's not your mistake, it's the anchor's mistake," posted one user, while another commented, "No mistake bro from your side. Ekkado mislead ayyadu PK (Pawan Kalyan misunderstood). Don't take it in other way. We all love Suriya & you."
The apology, while appreciated by some for Karthi’s grace, also left fans questioning its necessity. "Why the apology?" one fan asked. Another praised Karthi’s character: "This is why Telugu audiences love you & and treat you as their own. You didn't have to post this but you did speaks volumes about your character. Kudos sir."