Actor-filmmaker Raghava Lawrence, who’d kept mum about Sri Reddy’s allegations of sexual exploitation, finally opened up on the occasion of the 13th anniversary of his trust. Taking to Facebook, he posted a lengthy statement refuting the accusations and saying that he wasn’t upset with her, he just pitied her.
“I have been receiving several phone calls inquiring about the issue and I want to clear the air once and for all,” he wrote.
He even went as far as to say he would offer Sri a role in one of his forthcoming films if she had the necessary talent. “I will organise a press meet and I will give you a character and scene to enact, and some dance steps to dance. They will be simple steps and dialogues - just the basic qualities an actor should have. If you really have talent, act in front of me before the press,” he said, adding, “If you feel bad to portray in front of everyone, then contact my manager, bring your lawyer and well-wishers with you, and show your acting skills to me, and I will help you.”
Lawrence clarified that his offer was not made out of fear, but out of his sense of respect for women. “That’s why I have built a temple for my mother and dedicated it to all women,” he said.
