Kannada actor and filmmaker Rishab Shetty sparked a debate with his remark on Bollywood. He claimed that Bollywood films show India in a bad light at international film festivals. Telugu actor Nani weighed in on Shetty’s remark and offered his perspective on the matter.

“I don’t think Bollywood shows India in a negative light,” said Nani, “I think what Rishab means is much more rooted stories. Somewhere, I think there’s a lot of importance given to the technique and style of filmmaking rather than the core of the emotional story; this happens only in a few films. But there are some great magical films in Hindi.”

The actor added, “So, I don’t think he meant it that way, and without seeing his entire conversation, I don’t want to comment more.”

Rishab Shetty, known for his work in Kannada cinema, recently won the Best Actor award for his performance in Kantara at the 70th National Film Awards.

During a promotional interview with MetroSaga, Rishab Shetty said, “Indian films, especially Bollywood, show India in a bad light. These art films are invited to global events and given a red carpet welcome. My nation, my state, my language is my pride. Why not show it in a positive light? That’s what I am trying to do.”

On the work front, Nani is currently promoting his film Surya’s Saturday, which is set to release on August 29. The film, directed by Vivek Athreya, is an action thriller and is said to be the actor’s most expensive film. It also features S.J. Suryah, Priyanka Mohan, Abhirami, Aditi Balan, P. Sai Kumar, and Subhalekha Sudhakar.