Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], January 14: Actress Anshu has stepped forward to address the controversy surrounding Tollywood director Trinadha Rao Nakkina’s recent comments about her physical appearance at the teaser launch event of their upcoming film Mazaka.
In a self-recorded video message, Anshu clarified that the remarks made by Rao were misinterpreted and emphasized that the director had treated her with respect and kindness throughout the filming process.
During the teaser launch of Mazaka in Hyderabad on Sunday, Trinadha Rao made remarks about Anshu’s physical appearance, which quickly garnered public criticism. He had said, “When she came as a heroine in a movie, I could not believe it. Is she still like that? She is thin now, I only asked her to eat some food and increase weight because it is not enough for Telugu (audience). Everything should be in big sizes. It’s okay. She has improved a bit, she will improve more by next time.”
The comments were widely criticized on social media, with many accusing Rao of body-shaming.
In response to the backlash, Rao shared a video apologizing for his remarks, stating, “The comments made by me in the Mazaka teaser release event were not intentional, and I only did it to make everyone laugh. But because several women are hurt, I unconditionally apologize for those comments.”
Anshu, who is returning to the Telugu film industry after two decades with Mazaka, also addressed the issue in her own video message. She assured her fans and the public that the director’s words had been taken out of context.
“I am so grateful for all the love and cannot wait to entertain you all after such a long time,” she said. “I know there were some stories about Trinadha Rao’s comments, and I want to assure you that he is the loveliest man on the planet. He really is. I believe his words may have been taken out of context.”
Anshu further expressed her gratitude toward Rao, saying, “He has treated me like a member of his family. I’ve worked on this movie for 60 days, and I’ve been given nothing but respect, love, and good wishes. Please, let’s put this to rest. I’m so excited about the movie, and I believe we should all watch it for the right reasons.”
Praising Rao, Anshu added, “Trinadha sir has been an absolute pleasure to work with. I could not have asked for a better director to bring me back to the Telugu film industry, and I am very grateful for his guidance. I have nothing but love and gratitude for him and the entire team.”
Anshu, known for her appearance in the 2002 hit Manmadhudu, is now making her much-awaited return with Mazaka, which stars Sundeep Kishan and Rao Ramesh.