Rishab Shetty Faces Backlash for Supporting Darshan Amid Ongoing Allegations

Shetty is now facing backlash for publicly supporting and congratulating Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa ahead of the latter’s upcoming film release.

On December 10, Shetty took to X and wrote, "Wishing @dasadarshan Sir and the entire team of Devil a blockbuster release! May the film set the screens on fire. #Devil #PrakashVeer @AJANEESHB."

The post immediately drew criticism and fans and netizens felt it was insensitive as there are serious ongoing allegations against Darshan.

Some netizens even questioned the timing of showing support towards the actor amid serious allegations.

The outrage further sparked a heated debate over celebrity endorsements and accountability. People in comments criticised Shetty for supporting Darshan while many supported him for it.

A user wrote, "Total u turn ??? What a shame that you are supporting and wishing a criminal in jail ?"

Another person wrote, "Sir, life is more about holding up your morals! Post this doesn’t feel good! You don’t need to play in the gallery!"

"Wishing him for his movie and calling an accused “sir”… seriously? The guy’s literally sitting in jail right now," a third user wrote.

"Didn’t expect this from you sir !" another user commented.

The criticism arises from Darshan’s alleged involvement in the murder case of fan Renukaswamy. Several reports suggest that the circumstances surrounding the fan’s death have been tied to Darshan, triggering widespread public backlash.

The case is still going on and the fans are closely following the legal proceedings.

Darshan is currently in a Ballari Central Prison for the said case and has released a statement to his fans.

Amidst the legal troubles, the actor expressed his gratitude towards fans and asked them to show their Love by watching his upcoming movie, The Devil.