Vishnu Manchu Backs Kannappa Co-star Prabhas After Arshad Warsi's 'Joker' Remark: Every Word Can...

Prabhas-Arshad Warsi Controversy: A comment made by the Munna Bhai fame has caused a stir among cine lovers and insiders in the industry. In an interview, Arshad gave his candid opinions about Prabhas in Kalki 2898 AD and mentioned that his characterisation was looking like a ‘joker’. The remark triggered strong reactions from several Telugu celebrities like Nani and others. The latest to join the brigade is Kannappa star Vishnu Manchu who has written an open letter to CINTAA on the matter.

Vishnu Manchu writes an open letter to Poonam Dhillon-led CINTAA

Days after Arshad Warsi commented on Prabhas, Vishnu Manchu wrote an open letter to the Cine and TV Artists Association (CINTAA) headed by Poonam Dhillon. Criticising Arshad's remark , the actor stated it has deeply hurt the sentiments of the Telugu community and fans. He wrote the letter on behalf of the Movie Artistes Association (MAA). He stressed that the incident has caused caused 'significant concern’ in the Telugu film industry. He added, “While we respect and acknowledge the right of every individual to express their views, it is with regret that I must address a very belittling comment he made about actor Mr Prabhas. Mr Warsi’s comment has hurt the sentiments of many in the Telugu film community and among fans.”

He also emphasised that in the world of social media, each word uttered by a public personality is dissected and thus should not be said in vain. He said, ‘every word can quickly escalate into widespread debate’ and Arshad should have  ‘exercised caution in the expression’. He added, “Mr Warsi’s remark, unfortunately, has created unnecessary negativity among cinema lovers and within our fraternity,” he wrote, adding, “We request that Mr Arshad Warsi be advised to refrain from making such remarks about fellow actors in the future. It is essential that we maintain the dignity and respect that each of our colleagues deserve, regardless of their regional affiliation.”

Why did Arshad Warsi call Prabhas a ‘joker’?

Talking about Kalki 2898 AD in an interview, Arshad first praised the legendary Amitabh Bachchan, who stars in the film but called Prabhas' characterisation in it "joker-like". This upset many of Baahubali star's fans. Arshad said, “Maine Kalki dekhi, mujhe toh nhi acchi lagi. Mujhe bahut takleef hoti hai jab hein. Amit ji was (mind-blown sounds) unbelievable. I can't understand that man. I swear if we got the power he has, life ban jaae. He's unreal."

He further added, “Prabhas, I am really sad, why was he… he was like a joker. Why? I want to see a Mad Max. I want to see Mel Gibson over there. Tumne usko kya bana dia yaar. Kyu karte ho aisa mujhe nahi samajh mein aata." The comment has left people divided both online and within industries.