Telugu actor Sivaji has found himself at the centre of renewed outrage after the internet resurfaced multiple clips from his time on Bigg Boss Telugu Season 7, contradicting his recent apology and claims that he “respects women.”
The backlash follows his controversial remarks at a pre-release event in Hyderabad, where he spoke about how women should dress and used abusive language while framing his comments as concern for actresses’ safety.
After facing widespread criticism, Sivaji issued a public apology, saying his intentions were misunderstood and that he revered women as “Goddesses.”
He claimed his remarks were driven by concern after recent incidents in which actors Nidhhi Agerwal and Samantha Ruth Prabhu were reportedly mobbed. However, many online were unconvinced, pointing out that this was “not the first time” he had made derogatory or violent statements about women.
Viewers quickly dug out footage from Bigg Boss Telugu 7, which aired in 2023, where Sivaji was the second runner-up. On the reality show, he repeatedly targeted women contestants. In one instance, he said, “It’s a waste of time to talk to characterless people. What kind of game are they playing?” On another occasion, he dismissed a contestant as “chillar” (cheap) and remarked, “Who is she even? Does anybody speak like that? Wouldn’t her future husband be scared of marrying her?”
More troubling were his violent comments on the show. In a clip that has gone viral again, Sivaji is heard saying, “Ide mana intlo aada pilla aite gontuku mida kalu vesi tokkevadini… peeke vadini,” which translates to, “If she were a woman from my household, I would’ve stomped on her neck… I would’ve slapped her for her behaviour.” Critics also noted that at the recent event, he again mentioned that he would slap any actress who took offence at his comments.
Social media users and public figures reacted sharply.
One X user posted clips from Bigg Boss, writing, “Veedi reality antha BB lone bayata padindhi… Top 3 lo teeskochi pettaaru (His reality came out on Bigg Boss, yet he was taken to the Top 3).” Singer Chinmayi Sripada reposted Sivaji’s apology with a scathing comment: “Ammavaaru, Goddess, Mahashakti but yeah dont let your dress get you raped ya. Tsk tsk.” Another user replied with old footage, adding, “Ammai ante respect but intlo adapilla aithe gonthu meedha kaalu esi thokkutha.”
On Reddit, one user wrote, “I think the reason that guy played mangapathi well is that he is literally that person in real life,” referring to his villain role in Court: State vs a Nobody. Others expressed alarm at the support he still receives online, with one noting, “The comments supporting him on YT and Insta are scary.”
Despite Sivaji issuing apologies, including one to the Movie Artists Association, the controversy has not died down. While MAA President Vishnu Manchu called the apology sufficient, filmmakers like Nandini Reddy have demanded a clear code of conduct. The Telangana Women’s Commission has also issued a notice to Sivaji, ensuring the issue is far from over.
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