Raghavendra Rao Called Out For Pulling Keerthy Suresh, Krithi Shetty Closer To Him At Anil Ravipudi Movie Launch - Here's What Happened?

Raghavendra

Rao found himself in the middle of controversy after facing online criticism for attending the launch of director Anil Ravipudi's upcoming film in Hyderabad. The muhurat launch, featuring Venkatesh, Kalyanram Nandamuri, Keerthy Suresh, and Krithi Shetty, marked the formal beginning of the film. Rao, who was invited to direct the ceremonial first shot, became the topic of discussion after videos from the event surfaced online. The clips showed him guiding the actresses while setting up the scene, drawing mixed reactions. While some viewed it as part of the directing process, others questioned his behaviour.

Raghavendra Rao's Behaviour Towards Keerthy Suresh, Krithi Shetty At Anil Ravipudi Film Launch Called Out - Here's What Happened

The film launch saw several prominent personalities from the Telugu film industry in attendance. Producer Allu Aravind delivered the first clap, while Raghavendra Rao directed the inaugural shot. Producers Dil Raju, Suresh Babu and other industry celebrities also participated in the ceremony. Shortly after the event, videos of the inaugural shot began surfacing online on social media platforms. In one clip, the filmmaker is seen reaching for Keerthy Suresh's arm before later repositioning Krithi Shetty.

He then proceeded to instruct the cast, including Venkatesh and Kalyanram, on where they need to stand and body language for the shot. The videos quickly started a debate online, with several social media users expressing discomfort over the filmmaker's physical interaction with the actresses. Critics questioned whether such contact was necessary while directing the scene.

What Did Taapsee Pannu Say About Raghavendra Rao?

As the debate gained importance, some users revisited earlier incidents involving the veteran filmmaker. Several posts referenced a previous controversy involving actress Niharika Konidela, where Rao had also faced criticism for his interaction during a public event.The controversy also brought attention to comments made by actress Taapsee Pannu in 2017.

During a comedy show appearance, she recalled the director as someone with 'Midas touch' and is popular for introducing actresses, like Sridevi and Jayasudha, and that the film with her was his 105th project. She also said she had seen videos of Sridevi and other stars where flowers and fruits were used in scenes. During her own turn, she said she was not prepared when a coconut was thrown at her, adding that she did not understand what was sensuous about it hitting her midriff. Taapsee Pannu made her Telugu debut in 2010 with Jhummandi Naadam, directed by Raghavendra Rao.