Maruthi Supports Sivaji’s Comments, Shocks Netizens

Tollywood director Maruthi, who is waiting for his latest movie, Prabhas’ Raja Saab, to be released on January 9th, has weighed in on the ongoing controversy sparked by actor Sivaji’s remarks about the heroine’s clothing at public events. As Sivaji confirmed that he made those comments after looking at Nidhhi Aggerwal’s mobbing incident at Raja Saab’s event, Maruthi’s comments added more dimension.

Maruthi stated in a TV channel interview that Sivaji said some good words, but he said it strongly rather than toning them down such that people would get the essence of the advice. The director stated that he’s a witness to the Nidhhi Aggerwal incident at the Raja Saab event, which took place at a Mall in Hyderabad city. Maruthi felt that Sivaji was expressing concern about the safety of heroines amidst the crowd's behaviour.

While Maruthi offered a diplomatic and balanced response, acknowledging that everyone has the right to an opinion, but the manner in which it is expressed matters, netizens are upset with the director’s indirect support of Sivaji’s comments. Because linking a heroine’s attire directly to blame or responsibility isn’t the way forward, which many commoners and feminists have made clear.

Many felt that Maruthi should have stood by his heroine Nidhhi Aggerwal, who is the main lead in The Raja Saab, rather than saying Sivaji’s words have a good intent thought expressed roughly.