1. Nayanthara addresses the ‘Annapoorani’ controversy with a heartfelt apology.
2. Emphasizes no intention to hurt sentiments through the film.
3. Instagram post includes ‘Jai Shri Ram’ and ‘Om’ symbols as a part of the apology.
Entertainment, Jan 19: In a bid to address the brewing controversy surrounding her film ‘Annapoorani,’ actor Nayanthara has issued a heartfelt apology, emphasizing that neither she nor her team intended to hurt anyone’s sentiments.
The apology, shared on Instagram, features the words ‘Jai Shri Ram’ and the Hindu religious symbol ‘Om’ on the masthead. Nayanthara expressed regret, stating, “In our sincere attempt to share a positive message, we may have inadvertently caused hurt. We did not expect the removal of a censored film, previously showcased in theatres, from the OTT platform.”
Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, Nayanthara, a devout believer in God who frequents temples across the country, clarified that offending sentiments was the last thing she would intentionally do. She extended sincere apologies to those who felt touched by the controversy.
‘Annapoorani’ faced backlash from certain Hindu groups who accused it of spreading “anti-Hindu” propaganda. Consequently, Netflix decided to pull the film from its platform last week.
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The movie revolves around Annapoorani, portrayed by Nayanthara, a woman from a conservative Brahmin family in Srirangam, Tamil Nadu. The character strives to become a top chef in India, grappling with obstacles arising from the clash between her passion and orthodox ideals.
One particular scene became the focal point of contention. In it, Annapoorani, with the support of her classmate Farhan (played by Jai), decides to step out of her comfort zone and begins eating meat.
Farhan justifies this choice by stating that Lord Ram also consumed meat, challenging the notion that eating non-vegetarian food is a sin.
Ramesh Solanki, founder of the Hindu IT cell, expressed his objection to the film on social media, subsequently filing a complaint with the police.
This led to an FIR being filed by the Mumbai Police against Nayanthara, Jai, writer-director Nilesh Krishna, producers Jatin Sethi, R Ravindran, and Punit Goenka, Zee Studios Chief Business Officer Shariq Patel, and Netflix India head Monika Shergill.
In her Instagram post, Nayanthara clarified that the intention behind ‘Annapoorani’ was to uplift and inspire, not to cause distress. Reflecting on her two-decade-long journey in the film industry, she emphasized her commitment to spreading positivity and fostering mutual learning.
The apology aims to quell the controversy and convey a message of understanding and remorse for unintended hurt caused by the film.
