I Respect My Mother’s Faith, Says Prakash Raj Amid Criticism
Prakash Raj clarified that his personal beliefs do not override his respect for his mother’s faith.
Actor Prakash Raj has addressed social media criticism following his mother Suvarnalatha’s Christian funeral, despite identifying as an atheist. His mother, aged 86, passed away on March 29 due to age-related ailments, and her last rites were conducted in Bengaluru on March 31 in accordance with Christian traditions.
Visuals from the funeral showed the actor visibly emotional, which quickly circulated online and sparked debate over the choice of religious rituals. Responding firmly, Prakash Raj clarified that his personal beliefs do not override his respect for his mother’s faith.
“Yes, I don’t believe in God… but my mother believed in her God. Who am I to deny her the right to be buried according to her belief?” he stated. Emphasizing mutual respect, he added, “This is the basic respect we give one another. Will you hate-mongering monsters understand this? #justasking.”
Suvarnalatha, originally from Karnataka, was raised as an orphan in a Christian family and later worked as a nurse. She met her husband at the hospital, and the couple had three children. In the past, Prakash Raj had spoken about her health struggles, including a brain cyst that caused severe memory loss following surgery.
His response has triggered a broader conversation about faith, personal choice, and respect for individual beliefs. Many have come out in support of the actor, agreeing that final rites should honor the wishes and faith of the deceased.
Prakash Raj’s statement is being widely seen as a poignant reminder of empathy, coexistence, and honoring loved ones beyond ideological differences.
