MUMBAI: The recently released Telugu film OG has been making waves at the box office, garnering widespread acclaim for its gripping narrative and compelling performances. While fans across the Telugu states celebrate the film's success, its journey has not been without challenges. In Karnataka, OG faced hurdles in theatrical release due to a few individuals pushing their personal agendas - a trend that has, unfortunately, affected several Telugu films in the past.
Yet, amidst these regional tensions, Pawan Kalyan, the film’s lead actor and Andhra Pradesh's Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister, rose above with a broader vision for cinema and unity. Despite OG facing restrictions in Karnataka, Pawan Kalyan Garu showcased rare magnanimity by openly supporting a ticket hike for the Kannada film Kantara Chapter 1 in Andhra Pradesh. His message was clear: cinema, like all forms of art, is meant to unite people, not divide them. He reminded everyone that films, music, sports, and culture transcend language, religion, and region, they belong to everyone.
Pawan Kalyan said, "Cinema, music, sports, and cultural arts have no boundaries of language, region, caste, or religion. Their core purpose is to entertain and connect people from all walks of life. It is unfortunate that some individuals, driven by personal agendas, have tried to block the screening of OG in theatres across Karnataka - just as a few other Telugu films have faced similar obstacles in the past. In response, some voices have now begun to suggest that Kannada films like Kantara should be restricted in our Telugu states. I do not support this thinking.
He added, "Art and cinema must spread joy, bridge cultures, and bring people together, not drive them apart. Every individual has the right to watch the film they love. If you don’t like a film, you can choose not to watch it - but using personal hate or agendas to target films is simply unacceptable. Today, Indian cinema is being celebrated across the globe in every language. At a time like this, any attempt to confine art within regional limits must be strongly rejected. Let us support good films, wherever they come from."
Pawan Kalyan’s love for cinema has always been evident, not just as an actor but as a true patron of the arts. His consistent respect for filmmakers, technicians, and performers, irrespective of language or origin - reflects his belief that good cinema should be celebrated no matter where it comes from. His support for Kantara Chapter 1, even in the face of challenges faced by his own film, is a testament to his selfless approach and deep-rooted belief in the power of storytelling to bring people together.
Add new comment