Tirupati: Tollywood actor Nani’s comments on movie ticket prices, which sparked controversy across political and film circles, seems to be getting murkier by the day. While the actor called the state government’s move ‘illogical’ and ‘an insult to the audience’, some ministers and YSRC leaders have hit back at the star.
In a sarcasm-laid criticism that was aimed at belittling the actor, minister for water resources Dr. P. Anil Kumar Yadav said “I don't know who Nani is. There is only one Nani who is famous in Andhra and that is Kodali Nani. We are not bothered about comments made by any other Nani.”
Speaking to reporters here on Friday Yadav also dragged in Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan.
“How much is Pawan Kalyan charging for a movie? Why can't he reduce his remuneration? If he does so, film’s production costs will come down and there will not be any problems”, he said.
“I heard that the Vakeel Saab was made with a Rs 70 crore budget and Pawan Kalyan’s remuneration reportedly was between Rs 45 crore and Rs 50 crore,” he added.
The minister said Tollywood actors were worried that their remuneration would come down drastically if the ticket prices are lowered.
Yadav pointed out that he was also a fan who had even sold his motorcycle to erect cut-outs of Pawan Kalyan’s movie. “I lost time, money and energy like any other fan did. If they (fans) want to spend more on movie tickets, it’s their wish. However, they will realize one day that all this is a waste of time, money and energy”, he added.
