'Jai Shri Ram': Nayanthara says sorry after `Annapoorani’ sparks major row

Hyderabad: South Indian actress Nayanthara has issued a public apology after her film 'Annapoorani' sparked a major row.

The movie, which was recently removed from Netflix, drew criticism from certain Hindu groups who accused it of propagating "anti-Hindu" sentiments. Nayanthara expressed regret over any unintended hurt caused and clarified that the film aimed to share a positive message rather than offend sentiments.

The Apology:

Taking to Instagram, Nayanthara posted a message along with the Hindu religious symbol 'Om' and the phrase 'Jai Shri Ram' on the masthead. In her apology, she stated, "In our sincere attempt to share a positive message, we may have inadvertently caused hurt." The actress continued by expressing that neither she nor her team anticipated the removal of a film that had previously undergone censorship and theatrical release from the OTT platform. She reiterated her lack of intention to hurt anyone's sentiments and emphasized her belief in God, acknowledging the gravity of the issue.

Controversy Surrounding 'Annapoorani':

'Annapoorani' faced controversy when Hindu groups raised objections, accusing the film of spreading "anti-Hindu" propaganda. The storyline revolves around Nayanthara's character, Annapoorani, a Brahmin woman from Srirangam, Tamil Nadu, aspiring to become a top chef despite facing orthodox ideals within her family. The controversy intensified over a scene where the character consumes meat, sparking objections related to religious sentiments.

Film's Intentions Clarified:

Nayanthara defended the film's intentions, asserting that the primary goal was to uplift and inspire rather than cause distress. She explained that her two-decade journey in the film industry has been guided by the singular intention of spreading positivity and fostering learning. The actress expressed her heartfelt apologies to those whose feelings had been touched by the controversy.

Legal Implications:

The controversy prompted action from Ramesh Solanki, founder of the Hindu IT cell, who filed a complaint with the police. Nayanthara, along with others involved in the film, including Jai, writer-director Nilesh Krishna, and representatives from Zee Studios and Netflix, found themselves named in an FIR filed by the Mumbai Police.

Nayanthara's public apology signifies her commitment to addressing the concerns raised by certain groups regarding 'Annapoorani.' The incident highlights the delicate balance between creative expression and potential sensitivities surrounding religious beliefs. As the controversy unfolds, discussions on artistic freedom, cultural representation, and respect for diverse perspectives are likely to continue shaping the narrative around films and their impact on society.