'Scumbag': Hansal Mehta reacts to Nandamuri Balakrishna's pushing Anjali
What's the story
Nandamuri Balakrishna, a veteran Telugu actor, producer, and politician, is currently under fire due to a recent incident where he was seen pushing actor Anjali on stage.
This event occurred at a pre-release function for Anjali's forthcoming film Gangs of Godavari, where Balakrishna was invited as the chief guest.
A video of the incident has been widely shared online, depicting Balakrishna pushing Anjali after she didn't move enough after being asked by the senior actor.
Public response
Reactions to the incident: Anjali's response and co-star's shock
Anjali, who is known for her roles in films such as Angaadi Theru, Engaeyum Eppothum, Seethamma Vakitlo Sirimalle Chettu, and Geethanjali, appeared to take the incident in stride, even giving Balakrishna a high-five later on.
However, her co-star Neha Shetty was visibly taken aback by the incident.
Despite Anjali's seemingly casual response, social media users have voiced their outrage at Balakrishna's behavior, asking him to respect women.
Twitter Post
Here is the viral video
Disgrace to Tollywood Industry ! pic.twitter.com/6nx6fkClVx
— Let's X OTT GLOBAL (@LetsXOtt) May 29, 2024
Hansal Mehta's reaction
Hansal Mehta was quick to call the disgraceful act out
Shahid and Aligarh director Hansal Mehta, who is quite active on X, quoted the disturbing video on Thursday and wrote, "Who is this scumbag?"
In response, a fierce fan of Balakrishna defended the actor by saying, "They both have acted before with each other so they've that bonding, irrespective of age he had that friend kinda vibe with co-stars..."
Not the one to back down, Mehta responded, "Scumbag x100."
Similar instance
Balakrishna is known for having a temper
This is reportedly not the only time the actor has been criticized for his obnoxious behavior.
Earlier, director KS Ravikumar, who worked with him on the film Jai Simha, recalled an incident when the superstar almost hit an assistant director after a misunderstanding.
"He got mad at him and almost hit him. He claimed he was from the 'opposite gang.' I had to intervene," said Ravikumar.
Career
Take a quick look at his career
Balakrishna, fondly known as Balayya in the South Indian film industry, debuted in 1974 with Tatamma Kala.
Since then, he has starred in notable movies such as Sahasame Jeevitham, Nippulanti Manishi, Apoorva Sahodarulu, Sri Krishnarjuna Vijayam, and Gautamiputra Satakarni, among others.
He is the son of legendary actor NT Rama Rao and the uncle of Devara and RRR actor Jr NTR.