Complaint against SS Rajamouli for commenting on Lord Hanuman in Varanasi program
Filmmaker SS Rajamouli’s comments about Lord Hanuman at the title launch of his new film have sparked debate and concern, with several groups demanding action in response to his comments. A complaint has been lodged against him with the police in Hyderabad.
Controversy has erupted after a police complaint was filed against filmmaker SS Rajamouli alleging that he made derogatory remarks about Lord Hanuman during the title launch of his upcoming Telugu film ‘Varanasi’. His remarks during the event held at Ramoji Film Studio in Hyderabad have now sparked an online debate on artistic freedom, personal belief and religious sensitivity.
Following the incident, organizations including Vanarasena and Gau Rakshak Sangh submitted a written complaint to the Saroor Nagar Police Inspector, accusing Rajamouli of “deliberately insulting Hindu deities” and making comments “with the intention of inciting religious hatred”. The letter urges legal action and warns that such statements could incite tension between communities.
Rajamouli’s comments, made publicly to the press, film personalities and fans, have been widely circulated online. Addressing his personal stance on faith, he said, “This is an emotional moment for me. I don’t believe in God. My father came and said that Lord Hanuman will take care of things from behind. Is that how he takes care? It’s making me angry thinking about it.” His comments come after the program reportedly faced several technical glitches and leaks.
Citing his family’s religious beliefs, the filmmaker said, “My wife is also fond of Lord Hanuman. She behaves as if he is her friend and interacts with him. I even get angry at her.” Second line – “Is he also God?” – It has since become the center of controversy, with critics calling it offensive and provocative.
Rajamouli, known for mythologically inspired films like ‘Baahubali’ and ‘RRR’, now finds himself at the center of a heated debate over expression and accountability in cinema. Some have questioned whether these comments were spontaneous and personal, while others believe that they were made for publicity ahead of the film’s release.
‘Varanasi’ stars Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prithviraj Sukumaran and is scheduled to release in summer 2027.
As of now, Rajamouli has not issued a formal response to the complaint.
