Hyderabad: Acclaimed filmmaker SS Rajamouli has found himself at the centre of a controversy after his remarks about Lord Hanuman during the launch of his upcoming film Varanasi in Hyderabad triggered strong backlash and led to the filing of an FIR. The event took place on Saturday, November 15, at Ramoji Film City.
The issue surfaced when members of the Vanara Sena organisation filed a complaint with Saroornagar police on Tuesday, November 18, alleging that Rajamouli had hurt Hindu religious sentiments. The complaint cited his reported statement, “I don’t believe in God Hanuman,” which he made while addressing the audience.
According to a report in Deccan Herald, police officials have confirmed that the complaint has been received and that an investigation is currently underway. The case has drawn widespread public attention, especially on social media platforms where clips from the event have been circulating vigorously.
During the launch, the screening of the film’s teaser was disrupted due to technical issues, leaving Rajamouli visibly emotional in front of an estimated 50,000 attendees. Apologising to the audience, he remarked that the situation made him feel as though he had been let down by Lord Hanuman. Reflecting on the moment, he shared, “When my father talked about Hanuman and suggested relying on his blessings for success, I got so angry.”
Rajamouli further clarified onstage that he does not believe in God. He also referenced his wife’s spiritual devotion, adding, “My wife has a great devotion to Lord Hanuman. She talks to Him like He’s her friend. I even got angry with her for a while. Let’s see.”
The filmmaker, whose blockbuster films such as Baahubali and RRR are deeply inspired by Indian mythology and epic traditions, has so far not issued any official statement regarding the controversy or the FIR.
