Sandeep Reddy Vanga Defends Cinema Amid Criticism Following Andhra Pradesh Attack
Filmmaker Responds to Backlash
File image of filmmaker Sandeep Reddy Vanga(Photo: @Srinivasa451709/X)
Mumbai, Nov 4: Filmmaker Sandeep Reddy Vanga has addressed the backlash directed at his films in light of a tragic chainsaw attack that occurred in Andhra Pradesh.
He emphasized that such tragedies should evoke empathy rather than lead to scapegoating cinema. In a social media post, the director of ‘Animal’ expressed that the immediate reaction to a brutal crime should focus on supporting the victims and examining the broader issues at play, rather than placing blame on films.
On X (formerly Twitter), he stated, “When a heinous act occurs, the initial response should be empathy and a quest to comprehend the larger issue. It should not be about finding a convenient target in cinema. It’s becoming increasingly evident that your concern lies not with the victims or their families, but rather that you are exploiting a horrific event to settle personal grievances.”
Vanga further criticized certain individuals in the film industry for seizing the moment to attack others' work. He remarked, “This is particularly aimed at those unsuccessful actors, directors, and producers who suddenly take on the role of social reformers whenever they see a chance to criticize someone else’s work. A tragedy warrants empathy, not opportunism. Understand the distinction.”
His remarks came in the wake of criticism regarding violent content in his films after the shocking incident in Andhra Pradesh. The chainsaw attack occurred at a school in Raptadu, Anantapur district, causing widespread outrage.
The attack involved a 21-year-old man named Hemanth, who allegedly entered a classroom during a Class 10 lesson and assaulted a 15-year-old girl with a chainsaw. Another student, Lakshmi, was injured while attempting to protect her classmate. Preliminary police reports suggest that the assailant, who is related to the victim, had been stalking her and attacked her after she rejected his advances.
This incident has led to increased scrutiny of Sandeep Reddy Vanga, with many social media users revisiting a scene from his film ‘Animal’, where Ranbir Kapoor’s character enters a classroom armed with a gun. This particular scene has resurfaced in discussions following the disturbing attack.
Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma, known for his candid opinions, also contributed to the discourse on films accused of glorifying violence. He stated on X that blaming cinema for violent acts is misguided.
He commented, “Attributing the rise in violence to films is akin to blaming the Ramayana for an increase in kidnappings.”