Vishnu Manchu calls out Arshad Warsi for ‘hurtful’ comment on Prabhas; writes letter to Poonam Dhillon-led CINETAA: “It is essential that we maintain the dignity and respect” : Bollywood News

August 23, 20243 Mins Read

The controversy surrounding Arshad Warsi’s recent comments on Prabhas’ character in the film Kalki 2898 AD continues to escalate. Vishnu Manchu, the President of the Movie Artistes Association (MAA), has penned a strongly worded letter to the Cine & TV Artists Association (CINETAA) expressing his deep concern over Warsi’s remarks.

Vishnu Manchu calls out Arshad Warsi for 'hurtful' comment on Prabhas; writes letter to Poonam Dhillon-led CINETAA “It is essential that we maintain the dignity and respect”

Vishnu Manchu calls out Arshad Warsi for ‘hurtful’ comment on Prabhas; writes letter to Poonam Dhillon-led CINETAA: “It is essential that we maintain the dignity and respect”

In his letter, Manchu stated that Warsi’s comment “has hurt the sentiments of many in the Telugu film community and among fans.” He emphasized that while everyone has the right to their opinions, such belittling comments are “unacceptable” and can create unnecessary negativity within the film fraternity.

“Mr. Warsi’s remark, unfortunately, has created unnecessary negativity among cinema lovers and within our fraternity,” Manchu wrote. “We request that Mr. Arshad Warsi be advised to refrain from making such remarks about fellow actors in the future. It is essential that we maintain the dignity and respect that each of our colleagues deserve, regardless of their regional affiliation.”

Manchu’s letter supports several other Telugu celebrities, including Siddhu Jonnalagadda, Nani, and Sudheer Babu, who have also publicly criticized Warsi’s comments. The controversy began when Warsi, during a podcast interview, expressed his disappointment with Prabhas’ portrayal of the character Bhairava in Kalki 2898 AD. He compared Prabhas to a “joker” and expressed his desire for a more intense and action-packed performance, akin to Mel Gibson’s role in the Mad Max series.

Arshad had said, “I am really sad. Prabhas was like a joker. I want to see a Mad Max. I want to see Mel Gibson over there. Tumne usko kya bana diya yaar. Kyun karte ho aisa? Mujhe nahin samajh mein aata (What have you made of it? Why do they do such things? I never understand).”

The controversy has also led to a surge of support for Prabhas, with numerous fans and industry colleagues expressing solidarity with the actor. Many have praised his work and defended his choice to take on the role of Bhairava. This has drawn ire from fans and industry people too. However, Arshad Warsi has refrained from reacting to the backlash.