Tollywood star Balayya pushes co-star Anjali on stage, sparks backlash | WATCH

In the glittering world of Tollywood, where lights dazzle and stars shine, sometimes, the glitz fades to reveal moments of discomfort and dismay. Such was the case at the 'Gangs of Godavari' event when veteran actor-politician Nandamuri Balakrishna, fondly known as Balayya, found himself at the center of a storm. The internet erupted when a video capturing Balayya's startling act surfaced. 

In the midst of the 'Gangs of Godavari' event, Balayya, visibly perturbed, nudged actor Anjali aside on stage, drawing gasps from the audience and sparking outrage across social media platforms.

Watch the video here:

Disgrace to Tollywood Industry ! pic.twitter.com/6nx6fkClVx

— Let's X OTT GLOBAL (@LetsXOtt) May 29, 2024

Hansal Mehta's rebuke

Renowned filmmaker Hansal Mehta, known for his outspoken views, didn't hold back as he shared the video on his X (formerly Twitter) page, condemning Balayya's actions with the term 'scumbag'. The post ignited a storm of criticism against the actor-politician, with many echoing Mehta's sentiments.

Who is this scumbag? https://t.co/KUVZjMZY2M

— Hansal Mehta (@mehtahansal) May 29, 2024

Public outcry

Netizens swiftly took to social media to express their disapproval, lambasting Balayya for what they perceived as his discourteous and disrespectful behavior towards Anjali. Comments flooded the video, questioning the actor's conduct and decorum.

Pattern of controversy

This incident isn't the first time Balayya has courted controversy. His past actions, including slapping an assistant and demanding menial tasks, have painted a picture of a temperament that brooks no dissent. In 2015, he made headlines for pinching Anjali onstage during the launch of his film 'Dictator'.

The shadows of past allegations resurfaced as well. Radhika Apte, in an interview years ago, hinted at an unpleasant encounter with a Telugu actor who crossed boundaries on set. Though she didn't name Balayya directly, speculation arose given her association with him in the film 'Legend'.

Amidst the fray

Despite the tumult surrounding the event, 'Gangs of Godavari' stands poised for release, featuring a stellar cast including Vishwak Sen, Anjali, and Neha Shetty. As audiences await the film's unveiling on May 31, the controversy surrounding Balayya's actions serves as a stark reminder of the complexities that often lie beneath the glitz and glamour of showbiz.