Confusion Prevailed At 8 Vasantalu Success Meet

The coming-of-age drama 8 Vasantalu, directed by Phanindra Narsetti and starring Ananthika Sanilkumar, has been embroiled in controversy due to a fight sequence in the film's Varanasi episode. A journalist questioned the makers about the depiction of a Brahmin character as a rapist in the film, which sparked a row. Phanindra Narsetti took to his social media page to offer clarification, stating that the scene was based on real-life incidents of illegal slaughterhouses in Varanasi prior to 2017.

The director explained that the scene was not invented for the film but was based on research. He emphasized that the characters in the film are meant to portray human nature and not to disrespect any religion. Narsetti requested that people share his message to prevent mindless propaganda and controversy that could hurt many people and the film.

8 Vasantalu released on June 20 clashing with Sekhar Kammula's Kuberaa, and received a mixed response at the box office. The film's success meet, held on Monday, was attended by some of the cast and crew members, but the director and producer were noticeably absent. The cinematographer even suggested that viewers watch the movie on OTT for better quality.

8 Vasantalu marks a return for Phanindra Narsetti, known for his previous independent films like Backspace, Madhuram, and Manu. The film's music is composed by Hesham Abdul Wahab, and cinematography is by Vishwanath Reddy. Despite the controversy, the film's fate remains to be seen, and it will be interesting to see how audiences respond to Narsetti's clarification.