Raviteja's ‘Irumudi' Faces Ayyappa Samithi Outrage, Apology Demanded

Mass Maharaja Raviteja's latest blockbuster, 'Irumudi', is currently dominating the box office, yet its success is now overshadowed by intense controversy. The All India Ayyappa Deeksha Prachara Samithi has erupted in outrage, demanding unconditional apologies from the film unit. They allege the movie deeply hurts the sentiments of Ayyappa devotees, misrepresenting Guruswamis and tainting the sanctity of their spiritual practices. Irumudi Blockbuster; Ayyappa Samithi Unleashes Fury! Film taints Guruswamis, mocks Ayyappa Deeksha purity: Samithi. Apologize unconditionally! Samithi warns Ravi Teja, unit of doom. Second major storm! Teachers earlier slammed Irumudi for insults. Mass Maharaja Ravi Teja's latest blockbuster 'Irumudi' is creating a tsunami at the box office, setting several records and collecting decent revenues even in its third week. However, unexpected controversies have now engulfed this film, with intense anger being expressed by the All India Ayyappa Deeksha Prachara Samithi. They are demanding unconditional apologies from Ravi Teja, the directors, and the entire film unit. The Samithi's outrage stems from allegations that the film contains scenes hurting the sentiments of Ayyappa devotees and depicts elements that taint the sanctity of Guruswamis. At a press conference held at Somajiguda Press Club, the General Secretary of the Samithi fumed, stating that they watched the film and found it was filmed in a way that tarnishes Guruswamis and harms their sanctity. He expressed regret that instead of depicting how Swami protects a family when they go to Sabarimala carrying their 'irumudi' (sacred bundle), the film was named 'Irumudi' and turned into a crime-based commercial movie. He further claimed the film's success was solely due to the two songs made about Lord Ayyappa. Members of the Ayyappa Deeksha Samithi alleged that 'Irumudi' portrays Ayyappa devotees as individuals who undertake the Ayyappa mala (vow) only to resume drinking immediately after it ends. They emphasized that Ayyappa devotees maintain great purity not only during the deeksha but also on other days, which contributes to their families' prosperity. The Samithi members demanded that Ravi Teja, who made such a film with the name 'Irumudi', along with the directors, producers, and the entire film unit, should apologize unconditionally. The Ayyappa Deeksha Samithi members made crucial remarks, saying that Swami will only forgive them if they go to Sabarimala and seek refuge, otherwise, they will suffer the consequences. This is not the first controversy to surround the film. Earlier, Andhra Pradesh Government teachers had raised objections, alleging that 'Irumudi' insulted the education system and teachers in the state. Teacher federations had demanded the immediate removal of scenes that belittle government schools and teachers. Director Shiva Nirvana recently provided an explanation regarding this, clarifying that it was not his intention to portray teachers negatively. He stated that while there are 'toxic elements' in every system, they only depicted one teacher character negatively, and no one was acknowledging the good teacher character in the film. He explained that his intent was to portray atrocities against girls in a hard-hitting manner, necessitating such scenes. Shiva further clarified that he holds an MSc B.Ed degree, worked as a teacher for some years, and has immense respect for the teaching profession, thus never intending to insult anyone. It remains to be seen what turns this latest controversy surrounding 'Irumudi' will take, as Telugu audiences eagerly await the response of Ravi Teja and the film unit. As Telugu audiences eagerly await Ravi Teja's response, this 'Irumudi' controversy underscores the delicate balance between creative freedom and revered religious sentiments. The film unit's next move is crucial, determining not just the movie's fate but also setting a significant precedent for future cinematic portrayals. A swift, respectful resolution is imperative.