'Unintended Misunderstanding': Karthi Apologises To Pawan Kalyan Over Tirupati Laddu Row

Actor Karthi apologised to Andhra Pradesh Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan after backlash over his remarks on the Tirupati Laddu controversy, expressing deep respect and clarifying his devotion to Lord Venkateswara.

Hyderabad: Actor Karthi has publicly apologised to Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and actor Pawan Kalyan following backlash over comments related to the Tirupati Laddu controversy. The actor's initial remarks were criticised during Pawan Kalyan's 11-day purification ritual.

Karthi took to social media to render an apology and wrote, "Dear @PawanKalyan sir, with deep respects to you, I apologize for any unintended misunderstanding caused. As a humble devotee of Lord Venkateswara, I always hold our traditions dear. Best regards."

The incident unfolded when Karthi made a light-hearted remark during an event in Hyderabad on September 23, where memes were presented to him, one of which referenced the Tirupati Laddu. Responding to the meme, Karthi said, "Ippudu laddu gurinchi maatladakodadu (we should not talk about laddu now), it's a sensitive topic, manakoddadi (we don't want)."

However, Karthi's remarks did not sit well with Pawan Kalyan, who is currently observing an 11-day prayaschitta diksha (purification ritual). During a media interaction in Vijayawada on September 24, Pawan expressed his displeasure, stating that the Tirupati Laddu is a symbol of Sanathana Dharma and not a subject for jokes. In response to Karthi's remarks, Kalyan said, "Don't you ever dare to say that," and advised public figures to either support such religious matters or refrain from commenting on them altogether.

Following the uproar, Karthi took to social media to issue a formal apology. The controversy has sparked widespread discussion, with fans and devotees alike weighing in on the sensitive nature of religious symbols like the Tirupati Laddu. Karthi's apology has since gained attention as he sought to clarify his stance and respect for Sanathana Dharma.

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