Nidhhi Agerwal slams victim-blaming after Hyderabad mobbing: “Blaming the victim is manipulation”

Nidhi agerwal mobbed

Actress Nidhhi Agerwal has spoken out strongly following a troubling mobbing incident that took place during a promotional event in Hyderabad, condemning the idea that her clothing or behavior somehow provoked the crowd. In a candid statement, Agerwal criticised comments from fellow actor Sivaji — who had suggested that what she was wearing contributed to the reaction — calling such victim-blaming “manipulation” and harmful rhetoric that shifts responsibility away from the real issue.

The mobbing incident occurred when fans and onlookers surrounded the actress during a promotional event for a film in Hyderabad. Footage from the scene showed the crowd overwhelming security attempts, creating a chaotic situation that raised concerns about crowd management and the safety of performers at public events. In the days that followed, reactions on social media and in the entertainment community varied, with some offering support for Agerwal and others trying to rationalise the incident by attributing it to her attire. Agerwal’s response directly challenged that line of thinking.

The controversy erupted when Sivaji, known for his role as the antagonist in Court, took the stage to commend the female host for her saree. However, his speech quickly devolved into an unwarranted lecture on how women, especially heroines, ought to present themselves.

Speaking in Telugu, the actor said, "I request all heroines not to wear revealing outfits. Please wear sarees or dresses that cover the body fully. Beauty lies in complete attire or a saree, not in displaying physical assets."

Continuing his monologue, Sivaji added, "A woman is like nature. When nature is beautiful, we respect it. A woman is like my mother, whom I hold close to my heart." He also cited examples of yesteryear actresses and Rashmika Mandanna, suggesting that they are respected not only for their work but also for what he described as their "modest" dressing.

He concluded his address by stating, "Freedom is precious-don't lose it. People will respect you based on your conduct. Glamour should have limits; it should not cross a certain line."

The comments were met with immediate criticism online, with many calling them regressive and inappropriate for a public platform.

Sivaji's Apology Leading To Nidhhi Agerwal's Mobbing Incident

Taking to X, Sivaji shared a video message expressing regret over his statements made at the Dhandoraa pre-release event held on Monday.

He said, "I should not have used unparliamentary words. I was not speaking about all women. I only said maybe actresses wouldn't be made to feel uncomfortable if they dressed carefully. The intention wasn't to demean anyone, but because I used such words, I sincerely apologise."

"I sincerely apologise for my words during the Dhandoraa pre-release event last night," he wrote, acknowledging the hurt his remarks caused.

I sincerely apologise for my words during the Dhandoraa pre-release event last night.@itsmaatelugupic.twitter.com/8zDPaClqWT

— Sivaji (@ActorSivaji) December 23, 2025

Soon after his apology, the actor spoke to ANI. Sivaji explained that during the event, he meant to urge women to dress appropriately when appearing in public. He acknowledged that he had used two unparliamentary words in his speech, for which he later apologised.

Explaining the context behind his remarks, the actor referred to an incident at a Lulu Mall in Hyderabad a week earlier, where actress Nidhhi Agerwal was left visibly shaken after being surrounded and mobbed by an unruly crowd during the promotional event for her upcoming film The Raja Saab.

"My influence was the incident at Lulu Mall a week ago. Nidhhi Agerwal went to a function. There was a big mob, and they started pulling. She was wearing an off-shoulder dress; she is a very nice girl, but a huge crowd fell on her. I saw her face-she was so embarrassed. That is why I felt I had to address this," Sivaji added.

"My apologies for whatever I spoke about regarding the safety of heroines yesterday at the Dhandoraa pre-release event. My intention was good, but those two words were not correct. I totally regret it. I always believe that a woman is Maha Shakti. Without Amma, there is no world. I offer my heartfelt apology for hurting your feelings. My intention was good, but those two words were wrong," his note read.

Also read: Actress Nidhhi Agerwal mobbed by fans at The Raja Saab Song launch in Hyderabad

Unconvinced by the apology, the Telangana State Commission for Women has taken suo motu cognisance of the issue and summoned Sivaji for an enquiry on December 27, 2025.