Renowned filmmaker SS Rajamouli is currently in the news for his upcoming film Varanasi. The film’s title and teaser were recently unveiled at the Globe Trotter event, where stars Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra, and Prithviraj Sukumaran will be seen in key roles.
However, a major controversy erupted after Rajamouli made a remark during the event. Due to a technical glitch, the teaser failed to play, and while addressing the audience, Rajamouli spoke about how his father and wife are devoted to Lord Hanuman — but he himself does not believe in God.
Rajamouli reportedly said, “This is an emotional moment for me. I don’t believe in God. My dad came and said Lord Hanuman will take care of things from behind. Is this how he takes care? Thinking of this, I am angry.”
He further added, “My wife is also fond of Lord Hanuman. She behaves as if he’s her friend and converses with him. I got angry at her as well.”
Following these statements, several people expressed outrage, accusing Rajamouli of hurting religious sentiments. Many demanded an apology, and a formal complaint has now been filed against him. The Vanarasena organization has reportedly lodged an FIR.
In their statement, the Vanarasena and Gow Rakshak Sangh said that Rajamouli had “deliberately insulted Hindu deities”. They alleged that he made “offensive and hateful remarks” against Lord Hanuman in front of the audience, media, and film personalities, even questioning, “Is he even a God?” According to them, such comments were made with the intention of creating hatred between communities.
They further claimed that Rajamouli was using such remarks to gain free publicity for his film and increase profits. They urged authorities to take strict legal action against individuals who provoke communal tensions for personal gain.
