Dil Raju's comments on Telangana culture at Sankranthiki Vasthunnam trailer launch spark outrage

Hyderabad: Veteran film producer Dil Raju has prompted controversy with remarks he made during the trailer launch of Sankranthiki Vasthunnam in Nizamabad on January 6.

Speaking at the event, Dil Raju remarked, “If we go to Andhra, the people there will create a vibe for a movie, whereas in Telangana, the vibe is centered around toddy and mutton.”

His comments have been heavily criticized for downplaying Telangana's culture and promoting negative stereotypes about the region. Many people argue that his statement oversimplifies and misrepresents the traditions and identity of the people from Telangana.

MLC Deshapati Srinivas has voiced his disapproval of producer Dil Raju, sharply criticizing his comments regarding Telangana culture. Srinivas pointed out that Dil Raju had no involvement in the Telangana movement and questioned his understanding of the region's issues.

“Dil Raju has never supported the Telangana cause. Now, while speaking in Nizamabad, he is commenting on Telangana culture,” Srinivas stated. He highlighted the disconnect he perceives between the producer's remarks and his lack of engagement with the state's cultural and political landscape.

Srinivas further mocked the producer's comments, saying, “If Telangana doesn’t have a vibe, avoid making movies here. You can open a toddy shop or a meat stall if you want to find a vibe.”

He also questioned Dil Raju’s recent involvement in the ticket price hike in Nizamabad and the producer's stance on local matters.

However, producer Dil Raju has yet to respond to the criticism.

Meanwhile, Sankranthiki Vasthunnam, the upcoming film produced by Dil Raju and presented by his banner Sri Venkateswara Creations, is set for release on January 14, 2025, during the Sankranti festival.

Directed by Anil Ravipudi and starring Venkatesh in a mass role, the film marks the third collaboration between the director and the actor after the successful F2 and F3 films.

The movie features a unique triangular story with crime elements. Alongside Venkatesh, Aishwarya Rajesh plays his wife, while Meenakshi Chaudhary portrays his girlfriend. The supporting cast includes several notable actors, such as Upendra Limaye, Rajendra Prasad, Sai Kumar, and Naresh.

Bheems Ceciroleo composed the film's music, Sameer Reddy handled the cinematography, Tammiraju edited, and V Venkat choreographed the action sequences.