Pawan Kalyan Warns Film Industry Over Tirupati Laddu Remarks; Karthi Issues Apology

During a promotional event in Hyderabad for his upcoming movie Meiyazhagan, actor Karthi made a remark that has since caused a stir. When asked if he wanted a laddu, Karthi jokingly said, “Laddus are a sensitive topic,” which unintentionally offended actor and Deputy CM of Andhra Pradesh, Pawan Kalyan.

At the event, the anchor teased Karthi with memes, asking, “Laddu kavala naina? (Do you want a laddu?)” to which Karthi smiled and responded, “Let’s not talk about laddus now. It’s a sensitive topic.” The light-hearted exchange got cheers from the crowd, but Karthi declined further, saying, “Laddu oddu (I don’t want a laddu).”

Pawan Kalyan, however, did not take kindly to the comment. Addressing the media on Tuesday, he warned the film industry, saying, “If you’re going to talk about the Tirupati laddu, do it with respect. People won’t forgive you if you joke or make memes about it. Laddu is not something to joke about; it’s painful for many. When it comes to Sanatana Dharma, you must think a hundred times before you speak.”

Following Pawan’s statement, Karthi took to social media to issue a public apology. In a message on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote, “Dear @PawanKalyan sir, with deep respects to you, I apologize for any unintended misunderstanding. As a devotee of Lord Venkateswara, I hold our traditions dear.”

Karthi is currently gearing up for the release of Meiyazhagan and Sardar 2, while Pawan Kalyan is busy filming Hari Hara Veera Mallu and has upcoming projects like They Call Him OG and Ustaad Bhagat Singh.