FIR filed against SS Rajamouli over remarks on Lord Hanuman at Varanasi teaser event

Director SS Rajamouli, known for films like RRR and the Baahubali series, has become the centre of a controversy following remarks he made about God during a recent event in Hyderabad. The incident occurred on November 15 during the first glimpse reveal of his upcoming film Varanasi, starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Prithviraj Sukumaran.

The event, held at Ramoji Film City, reportedly drew over 50,000 fans and industry members. Technical glitches during the teaser presentation delayed proceedings, prompting an emotional Rajamouli to speak candidly. In his address, the director referenced his personal lack of belief in God, saying, “I don’t have much faith in gods. This is an emotional moment for me. I don’t believe in God. My dad came and said Lord Hanuman will take care of things for me. After the glitch happened, I raised my voice at him, saying, ‘Is this how he leads me?’ My wife is a big admirer of Hanuman. She treats the God like her friend and talks to him. I expressed my anger at her too, saying, ‘Is this how he does things?’”

The statement, made in a moment of frustration, was perceived by some as offensive. Following the event, the Rashtriya Vanara Sena is reported to have filed a police complaint, alleging that the remarks hurt religious sentiments.

Rajamouli has consistently identified as an atheist, despite his films often drawing inspiration from Indian epics and spiritual imagery. However, the timing and setting of his comments at a religiously themed film event appear to have intensified reactions. The FIR marks the latest development in the unfolding situation.

The teaser for Varanasi, which experienced the technical delays, reportedly features a brief depiction of Lord Hanuman in a sequence inspired by the Treta Yuga. The film is said to follow a globe-trotting adventure blending mythology with modern storytelling, tracing a quest through ancient eras in search of hidden treasure.

Rajamouli has not issued a public statement regarding the FIR or the social media backlash. Varanasi, starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra, and Prithviraj Sukumaran, is slated for release in 2027. The incident has stirred debate about artistic expression and sensitivity during high-profile public events.