Chiranjeevi, the celebrated megastar of the Telugu film industry, is currently facing substantial criticism following remarks made at the pre-release event of the film Brahma Anandam. Known for his influential status, Chiranjeevi's recent comments about gender and family legacy have incited outrage among fans and netizens alike.
At the event, Chiranjeevi openly expressed his fears about having another granddaughter, indicating his desire for his son, Ram Charan, to have a male child. He stated, "When I’m at home, it doesn’t feel like I’m surrounded by my granddaughters; it feels like I’m a ladies’ hostel warden, surrounded by ladies all around. I keep wishing and telling (Ram) Charan, at least this time, have a boy so our legacy continues, but his daughter is the apple of his eye… I’m scared he might again have a girl." These remarks, perceived by many as sexist and regressive, highlight enduring societal stereotypes about gender roles.
The backlash was swift and fierce. On social media platforms like X, numerous users shared their disappointment, arguing his views are reflective of outdated patriarchal norms. One user lamented, "Chiranjeevi is scared his son Ram Charan might have another daughter. Disappointing, but not surprising. I have heard from hundreds of people to give birth to a boy next. It feels horrible when people want us to control things I can’t." This comment captures the sentiment of many who feel the pressure of traditional expectations surrounding childbearing and gender.
Another social media reaction reflected the need for clarification: "Dear Chiranjeevi garu, I have respect for you as an actor. I would appreciate some clarification on your recent statement. It came across as misogynistic and seemed to imply the only way to carry on your legacy is through male heirs. Did you truly mean to suggest this?" Such responses underline how the discourse surrounding gender and legacy remains complex and often contentious, even among public figures.
Comments like, "If she’s a girl, why fear? They can carry the legacy forward the same as boys do or even more," articulated the growing awareness and movement against traditional gender biases. This indicates a broader societal shift, emphasizing the value of daughters and their capability to contribute to family legacies just as prominently as sons.
The criticism also sheds light on Chiranjeevi's family dynamics. He is the father of actor Ram Charan, who recently welcomed his daughter, Klin Kaara, and he also has two daughters, Sreeja and Sushmita, each with children. This reality seemingly exposes the contradiction between his personal family experiences and his public assertions about preferring male children.
Chiranjeevi's comments come amid larger conversations about gender equality and the evolution of family structures. Many argue these statements perpetuate outdated views and hinder societal progress. Ram Charan himself had previously shared insights about his new fatherhood, speaking to how his attachment to Klin Kaara blossomed as she began to recognize him, reinforcing the idea of the valuable role daughters hold within families.
The overwhelming response to Chiranjeevi's comments serves as a reminder: the discussion surrounding legacy is changing. Despite his stature as one of India’s most recognized actors, his remarks reveal the extent to which traditional views about male heirs persist. Critics suggest the actor use his platform to advocate gender equality and dispel stereotypes instead of reinforcing them.
Reflecting on these comments from Chiranjeevi prompts questions about how society perceives gender roles and legacy. For public figures, the impact of their words can influence societal attitudes, and the push for change often begins with challenging outdated beliefs.
Chiranjeevi, married since 1980 to Surekha, symbolizes the intersection of celebrity culture and societal expectations, crafting the narrative around legacy not as gendered but as inclusive of both sons and daughters. Such narratives, enriched by positive representations of all genders, could ignite change and inspire future generations.
Looking forward, Chiranjeevi is expected to appear next in the film Vishwambhara, amid conversations on ensuring remarks and roles reflect broader, more inclusive views, paving the way for progressive thinking around gender and legacy.