Ravi Teja–Sreeleela Song ‘Ole Ole’ Draws Flak

Folk songs often strike a chord with grassroots audiences, but there’s a fine line between mass appeal and crossing into objectionable territory.

Netizens say the latest track “Ole Ole” from Ravi Teja’s upcoming film Mass Jathara crosses that line.

Composed by Bheems Ceciroleo with lyrics by Bhaskar Yadav Dasari, the song has sparked backlash for phrases such as Nee amma, Nee ayya, Nee akka, Nee chelli, Gunta, Nee ollokochi panta, Siggu ledu, Sheramu ledu, and Laagu ledu. Many online users have slammed the lyrics as vulgar, arguing that while folk numbers should be celebrated, they must still respect cultural boundaries.

The Ravi Teja–Bheems combo has previously delivered hit folk-style songs like Dhanda Kadiyal and Jinthak Chitak. However, their attempt to recreate an Uttarandhra-style folk number seems to have backfired this time. The makers are yet to comment on the controversy.

Directed by Bhanu Bhogavarapu, Mass Jathara pairs Ravi Teja with Sreeleela and is set for a worldwide release on August 27, coinciding with Vinayaka Chavithi.