It seems heroes are increasingly becoming soft targets. If they respond to fans' problems with promises to help, any delay or unfulfilled assurance turns into media stories, creating unnecessary complications.
Before the release of Devara, NTR assured a fan over the phone, promising to help with medical expenses.
Following his words, fans collectively raised Rs 10–12 lakhs, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams contributed Rs 40 lakhs, and Aarogyasri added Rs10 lakhs for the patient.
Despite these efforts, media attention shifted to NTR, questioning why he hadn’t contributed yet, when the patient's mother expressed this. Fans had to step in to clarify the matter on his behalf.
Reportedly, the hospital bills escalated to Rs 77 lakhs due to delays. It is said that as TTD and Arogyasri amounts directly went to the hospital, the amount given by fans was used towards clearing some loans taken earlier.
NTR's office later intervened, personally negotiating with the hospital, paying a portion of the bill, purchasing medicines and a wheelchair, and ensuring the patient was sent home.
NTR personal contribution was said to be around Rs 9–10 lakhs, separate from fan donations.
The issue isn’t about money—it’s about the growing pressure on heroes. If this continues, there’s a risk that they might detach from such causes, ultimately affecting those in real need of help.