Arshad Warsi’s recent comments about Prabhas in Kalki 2898 AD have sparked controversy among fans and netizens alike. In a recent podcast with Samdish Bhatia, the actor-comedian known for his iconic roles in films like Munna Bhai MBBS and Jolly LLB expressed his disappointment with the film, specifically calling Prabhas a “joker” in his portrayal. This remark, “Prabhas was like a joker,” has ignited a backlash on social media, with many fans demanding an apology.
During the podcast, Arshad Warsi was asked if he had seen any bad films recently. Responding to the question, Warsi didn’t hold back his thoughts on Kalki 2898 AD. He stated, “I watched Kalki which I didn’t like. Prabhas, I’m really sad to say, but he was like a joker. Why? I wanted to see a Mad Max, I wanted to see Mel Gibson over there. What have you made of it? Why do they do such things? I never understand.”
Kalki 2898 AD, starring an ensemble cast including legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan, who portrayed Lord Ashwathama, has been a major talking point in Indian cinema. Arshad Warsi did praise Amitabh Bachchan’s performance, calling it “unbelievable” and expressing admiration for the legendary actor. However, his harsh criticism of Prabhas did not sit well with the latter’s massive fanbase.
The comment “Prabhas was like a joker” has particularly angered Rebel fans, as Prabhas’ fanbase is popularly known. Known for his global appeal and massive box office successes, Prabhas has earned titles like ‘King of Crowd Puller’ and ‘Box Office King’. His fans have taken to social media to express their discontent with Arshad Warsi’s remarks, demanding an apology. One user on X (formerly Twitter) wrote, “I have immense respect for @ArshadWarsi as an actor. He has every right to put his opinion on a movie, but not against an individual. Labeling his fellow actor #Prabhas as a joker shows his jealousy and arrogance.” Another user commented, “Ab toh mere theater mein teri movie lagaunga nhi (Now I will not screen your movie in my theater).”
Despite the backlash, some fans have taken a more measured approach. One fan expressed that as an “ardent fan of Prabhas”, he found it hard to believe that Arshad Warsi made such a comment but acknowledged that Warsi is entitled to his opinion. The fan encouraged others to respond respectfully and to disagree with Warsi’s comments in a dignified manner rather than resorting to anger or blame.
The controversy surrounding the comment “Prabhas was like a joker” was so intense that it has also drawn responses from prominent Telugu celebrities, who have stepped in to support Prabhas and criticize Warsi’s choice of words. The incident highlights the intense loyalty of Prabhas’ fanbase and the sensitivity around his portrayal in high-profile projects like Kalki 2898 AD.
Kalki 2898 AD, which was released on June 27, 2024, has been a phenomenal success at the box office, recently celebrating 50 days in theaters. The film, which is part one of the Kalki franchise, was described as setting the stage for the story, with the real narrative expected to unfold in the upcoming sequel. The filmmakers have already hinted that the next installment will take the story to even greater heights.
On the professional front, Arshad Warsi is gearing up for the release of Jolly LLB 3, set for 2025. Prabhas, meanwhile, has been busy with multiple projects. He recently attended a grand pooja ceremony to kick off the film tentatively titled Fauji with filmmaker Hanu Raghavapudi. Prabhas also has several other projects in the pipeline, including Rajasaab, Salaar 2 and Kalki 2898 AD 2.
Despite the controversy, Prabhas continues to enjoy massive success, with Kalki 2898 AD earning over ₹1100 crore worldwide. As the dust settles on this controversy, fans are eagerly awaiting the next chapter in Prabhas’ career.
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