Radhika Apte has sparked a major controversy following her recent remarks about her experience working in a Telugu film.

While promoting her Netflix series Akka alongside co-star Keerthy Suresh, Apte revealed that she “hated everything about” a particular Telugu project in which her character had to marry her maternal uncle (Mama), romance a significantly older actor and get killed off halfway through the movie.

Although Apte did not name the film, netizens linked her description to the 2014 blockbuster Legend, directed by Boyapati Srinu and starring Nandamuri Balakrishna.

Her comments have drawn severe backlash from Telugu cinema fans, with many questioning her decision to accept the project if she disagreed with its storyline.

Older promotional interviews in which she had praised the film have also resurfaced, with fans accusing her of hypocrisy.

A leading Telugu actor, who chose not to be named, told this writer, “This is not the first time she has chosen to insult Telugu cinema and actors.

But really, we shouldn’t feel insulted.

This lady has a problem with any and everything in Indian cinema.

I wonder we tolerate her presence when she can’t seem to tolerate us.”

Keerthy Suresh said, “It’s a very Tamil and Telugu thing where you marry your uncle.”

Telugu director Nandini Reddy said, “Every actor has a right to choose where and whom they work with.

They are also free to express their opinions on the same.

But to work repeatedly in an industry and then make disparaging comments on the culture and traditions of a culture without truly understanding the nuances is absolutely unfair.”

Actor-politician Khushbu Sundar added, “I don’t know Ms. Apte from Adam.

But disrespect towards any language is not acceptable.

Nobody forced Apte to do the project.

She did it because she wanted to do it and probably was paid well.

Balakrishna is one of the most successful and famous actors who has a huge legacy behind him, not to forget his own tremendous fan following.

It is an insult to him.”

Payal Rajput Throws Her Weight Behind Tollywood

Joining the debate, actress Payal Rajput has expressed strong support for Tollywood, crediting the Telugu film industry for playing a significant role in shaping her career.

The RX 100 actress said the industry had given her recognition, opportunities and the position she enjoys today.

Questioning the attitude of those who build their careers with an industry’s support before turning critical of it, Payal made it clear that she would never forget the industry that gave her a platform and stood by her.

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