‘Mandaadi’ Director Clarifies Suhas Skin Tone Remark
Mathimaran Pugazhendhi’s “we do not discriminate” remark on skin colour in Tamil Nadu drew criticism from some Telugu fans
A colourism controversy has erupted around Telugu actor Suhas after Mandaadi director Mathimaran Pugazhendhi claimed the actor had faced racist comments over his skin colour “from back home”.
At the film’s success meet, Mathimaran said Suhas was hurt by comments about his skin colour and had promised to respond after the film succeeded. His remark that “we do not discriminate against our actors based on their colour in Tamil Nadu” drew criticism from some Telugu fans, who saw it as a dig at the Telugu industry and audience. Others defended Suhas and said his experience of colourism should not be dismissed. Mathimaran later clarified that he was referring to one individual, not Telugu people, audiences or cinema, and said he respected the Telugu industry and audience. Suhas chose not to address the controversy directly. Instead, he thanked audiences for backing his journey from YouTube shorts to lead roles, saying, “Whatever I am today is because of your love, encouragement and belief in me.”
Highlight: He clarified that he was referring to one individual, not Telugu people, audiences or cinema, and stressed his respect for Tollywood.