Renowned director SS Rajamouli has found himself at the centre of a controversy after his remarks about God at the Varanasi event drew sharp criticism.
On November 15, during the first look of the first-glimpse reveal of the Mahesh Babu-starrer ‘Varanasi’, Rajamouli began his speech by commenting on his lack of belief in Lord Hanuman as the team struggled with technical glitches.
Complaint filed against SS Rajamouli
According to reports, the Rashtriya Varana Sena has lodged a complaint against the RRR filmmaker, alleging that his statement offended Hindu sentiments. The complaint has reportedly been filed at Saroornagar Police Station.
As per reports, Rajamouli became irritated due to repeated technical issues and said in Telugu, “Naku devudu mida pedda nammakam ledu andi. Nannagaru vachi indaka Hanuma…venakala untadu, nadipistadu ani chepparu. Idi aina ventane kopam vachindi. Idena nadipinchedi ani (I don’t believe in God. My father mentioned that Hanuman will guide me. I got angry as soon as this (glitches) happened. Is this how He’s helping me?)?”
He paused momentarily after expressing frustration. He also spoke about his wife Rama’s deep faith, adding, “My wife has a great devotion to Lord Hanuman. She talks to Him like He’s her friend."
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Netizens react
His words quickly triggered strong reactions on social media, with many accusing the director of hurting religious sentiments. One X wrote, “Disappointed to see the movie name as Varanasi. Didn't expect this from such a big director like you.. I think it's going to be a Hinduism movie. If it is so, pure shamefulness.”
Another X user wrote, “Illiterate Hindus are the Biggest threat to Hinduism, SS Rajamouli spreading Hinduism globally in the best way possible, yet people still hate him.” Another wrote, “Atheists using our history to make money”
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At the same event, Rajamouli unveiled the first look of Mahesh Babu as Rudra. The poster shows the actor in a fierce trident-wielding avatar, riding a bull with the temples of Kashi in the background.
The visuals hint at an ambitious narrative rooted in mythology and history, stretching from 512 CE Varanasi to 7200 BC, with references to the Uggra Bhatti caves and the iconic imagery of Lord Hanuman setting Lanka ablaze.
