Telugu film actor Sivaji on Saturday alleged that a conspiracy was being hatched against him, claiming that even people close to him were involved, following the controversy over his remarks on women’s attire made at the pre-release event of the film Dandora.
The comments had triggered widespread criticism on social media, prompting Sivaji to issue a public apology.
Subsequently, the Telangana State Women’s Commission issued notices to the actor and directed him to appear before the panel.
In compliance, Sivaji met Commission chairperson Nerella Sharada on Saturday and offered an explanation.
Speaking to the media after the meeting, Sivaji questioned why his remarks had provoked such intense anger.
“What mistake did I commit to invite such hostility? What people wear is entirely their personal choice. I never intended to hurt anyone,” he said.
He argued that similar remarks had been made in the past by others without attracting comparable scrutiny and alleged that some individuals were portraying the controversy as a publicity stunt for the film.
Sivaji said the Commission questioned him on behalf of those who felt hurt by his remarks, and he responded to all the queries.
“Given the recent developments, I may have made mistakes while speaking. But there was no intention to insult or offend anyone,” he said.
The actor further claimed that a group of individuals, including people with whom he began his career, were deliberately trying to trouble him.
“After my comments, some people even held Zoom meetings to discuss how to harass me. I never expected such a conspiracy from those close to me,” he alleged.
Stating that he had learned an important lesson, Sivaji said he would refrain from offering unsolicited advice in the future.
“India has a strong family system, and there are institutions to protect individual rights. I understand now that I should not cross certain boundaries,” he said.
He also announced that he was withdrawing the remarks that had offended the Commission and reiterated his willingness to appear again if further clarification was required.
“Let us end this issue here. If I don’t get film opportunities, I will return to farming. I come from a farming family,” he said.
While asserting that he was not afraid of threats, Sivaji emphasised that he would neither compromise his self-respect nor disrespect institutions or the film industry that nurtured him.
“No one can please everyone in this world. Time will answer everything,” he said, adding that he had not yet seen the comments made by actor Nagababu on the issue.
Quoting the phrase ‘Yatharthavadi loka virodhi’ (a realist often faces opposition), Sivaji left the venue, calling for mutual respect for differing opinions.