Cine-TV Artists Association seeks Arshad's response over 'joker' comment
CINTAA (Cine and TV Artistes Association) President and actor Poonam Dhillon has confirmed that she will write to actor Arshad Warsi in response to his controversial "joker" remark about Prabhas's character in Kalki 2898 AD. Dhillon's statement comes after Telugu actor Vishnu Manchu, who is also the President of the Movie Artiste Association (MAA), wrote a letter highlighting the issue. The controversy has been raging for the past few days now.
'I would still like him to clarify': Dhillon
Dhillon told Hindustan Times, "It is definitely something that has created a bit of unpleasantness, especially in the Telugu industry. We are also writing to Arshad Warsi and taking his feedback on that." "While I do believe that he may not have said it against Prabhas; it may be against the character in the film, I would still like him to clarify and if need be, undo the hurt which he may have caused artistes of the Telugu industry."
'Prabhas is one of the most decent, nice, respected people'
The veteran actor further said, "Prabhas is one of the most decent, nice, respected people of the industry and I am sure it was not meant to hurt him as a person." "We will let Arshad clarify his stand because I cannot speak for him. I would like to believe that as an actor, he will not make such comments about someone who is so well-respected and loved."
What did Manchu write in his letter?
In his letter to Dhillon, Manchu wrote, "Mr. Warsi's comment has hurt the sentiments of many in the Telugu film community and among fans. It unfortunately has created unnecessary negativity among cinema lovers." "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."
Warsi's statement and 'Kalki' director Nag's response
During an appearance on the podcast Unfiltered by Samdish, Warsi had said, "Prabhas, I am really sad but why was he like a joker [in the film]. Why do filmmakers do this, I will never understand." Meanwhile, on Saturday, Kalki director Nag Ashwin urged fans to not engage in "north-south or bolly vs tolly" debates, but acknowledged that "Arshad saab should have chosen his words better."
