Days after actor Arshad Warsi made a controversial remark about Prabhas' appearance in the sci-fi film 'Kalki 2898 AD,' the film's director, Nag Ashwin, has addressed the issue. The controversy began when Arshad Warsi, during an interview on the Unfiltered by Samdish podcast, expressed his disappointment with Prabhas' portrayal in the film, likening his look to that of a "joker."

Nag Ashwin Calls for Unity in Indian Cinema

Taking to X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, Nag Ashwin responded to a fan who shared a clip from the film featuring Prabhas. The fan praised the scene, stating, "This one scene (greater than symbols) >>>> whole Bollywood... Kalki 2898 AD... Prabhas." In response, Ashwin tweeted, "Let's not go backwards... no more north-south or bolly vs tolly (Bollywood vs Tollywood)... eyes on the bigger picture... united Indian film industry... Arshad saab (sir) should have chosen his words better... but it's ok... sending Buji toys for his kids... I will work hard so tweets... that Prabhas was the best ever in K2 (flexed biceps emoji)."

This one Scene >>>> Whole Bollywood #Kalki2898AD #Prabhas pic.twitter.com/oVjnSa0sjc

— Varun 45 (@Varun__Tweets) August 24, 2024

Let's not go backwards..no more north-south or bolly vs tolly..eyes on the bigger picture.. United Indian Film Industry..Arshad saab should have chosen his words better..but it's ok..sending buji toys 4 his kids..il work hard so tweets fdfs that prabhas was the best ever in k2💪

— Nag Ashwin (@nagashwin7) August 24, 2024

Ashwin's response emphasized the importance of unity in the Indian film industry, urging fans and actors alike to move beyond regional divides and focus on the collective growth of Indian cinema. He also acknowledged that Warsi could have been more careful with his words but chose to take a positive approach by sending gifts to Warsi's children.

Arshad Warsi's Controversial Remarks

Arshad Warsi's comments came during an interview where he expressed his disappointment with Prabhas' look in 'Kalki 2898 AD.' He said, "Amit ji was unbelievable... Prabhas, I am really sad, why was he... he was like a joker. Why? I want to see a 'Mad Max'. I want to see Mel Gibson over there. Tumne usko kya bana diya yaar. Kyu karte hain aisa mujhe nahin samajh mein aata (What did you make him? Why do they do such things?)."

Warsi's remarks sparked backlash from Prabhas' fans and several industry figures. Vishnu Manchu, the president of MAA, penned a letter to Poonam Dhillon, president of CINETAA, condemning Warsi's statement. Celebrities including Nani, Sudheer Babu, and director Ajay Bhupathi also criticized Warsi's comments, highlighting the sensitivity surrounding the portrayal of beloved actors.

'Kalki 2898 AD': A Record-Breaking Success

Despite the controversy, 'Kalki 2898 AD' has been a monumental success, crossing the ₹1,000 crore milestone in global box office collections. The film, which released on June 27, has captivated audiences with its blend of mythology and sci-fi action. Starring an ensemble cast that includes Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Deepika Padukone, and Disha Patani, the film has become a landmark in Indian cinema.

Set in a post-apocalyptic world in 2898 AD where nature has vanished and darkness prevails, the film follows the journey of Bhairava, a bounty hunter navigating a dystopian future. 'Kalki 2898 AD' marks the first installment in the Kalki Cinematic Universe and has set the stage for future sequels.

Now Streaming on Netflix and Prime Video

Following its successful theatrical run, 'Kalki 2898 AD' is now available for streaming on Netflix and Prime Video. The film is streaming in Telugu on Prime Video, with dubs available in Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam. On Netflix, the film is available in Hindi, allowing a wider audience to experience the epic saga.

As the debate over Arshad Warsi's comments continues, one thing remains clear: 'Kalki 2898 AD' has cemented its place as a groundbreaking film in Indian cinema, with Prabhas' performance at the heart of its success.