- Telangana Government Upset
- Missing Big Names at Gaddar Film Awards
Article Today, Hyderabad:
The recently held Gaddar Film Awards ceremony in Hyderabad drew sharp attention, not for its grandeur but for the absence of several senior actors. Chiranjeevi, Nagarjuna, Venkatesh, Mahesh Babu, Ram Charan, Jr. NTR, and Prabhas were notably missing. Even the Movie Artistes Association (MAA) president Vishnu Manchu did not attend. This has triggered debates within the film circles and among fans across Telangana.
Government’s Recognition Ignored
The Telangana government organized the event to honour cinematic excellence and to celebrate the contributions of artists. However, the absence of key stars raised serious concerns. Many wonder whether these actors value the awards presented by the state government. The situation has also sparked criticism over whether some stars, who enjoy substantial benefits like land concessions and ticket price hikes in Telangana, are showing disregard for the government’s recognition.
Strong Reaction from Chief Minister
Sources reveal that Chief Minister Revanth Reddy was deeply disappointed with the film fraternity’s behaviour. He reportedly expressed his anger over their absence and is said to have remarked that the government cannot continue to offer its support if artists do not reciprocate respect. The CM’s sharp response indicates the seriousness with which the government viewed the occasion.
FDC Chairman Dil Raju Expresses Displeasure
Film Development Corporation (FDC) Chairman Dil Raju openly expressed disappointment over the poor turnout from senior artists. He emphasized that the state government worked hard for six months to organize these awards. He insisted that even busy shooting schedules should not be an excuse to miss such a significant event. “When the government honours you, you must accept it and attend. Please mark your calendars for future government events,” he stated firmly.
Leading Celebrities Grace the Event
Despite the absence of some senior stars, the ceremony was attended by notable personalities such as Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka, Cinematography Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy, Dil Raju, actors Allu Arjun, Vijay Deverakonda, Nandamuri Balakrishna, and director SS Rajamouli. The government presented awards from 2014 to 2023 and announced several recognitions for 2024.
Allu Arjun and Niveda Thomas Receive Top Honours
Allu Arjun received the Best Actor award for his performance in “Pushpa 2.” Niveda Thomas was honoured as Best Actress for her role in “35: Idi Chinna Katha Kaadu.” However, the lack of presence from other awardees and top stars reportedly affected the spirit of the ceremony.
Industry Divided Over Award Selections
Some sources suggest that senior actors were unhappy about certain selections, particularly the decision to present the prestigious NTR National Award to Balakrishna. Rumours also indicate that members of the Mega family stayed away after Allu Arjun was chosen for Best Actor, possibly fearing political interpretations. One senior actor allegedly commented, “Why should we clap when they receive awards?” This statement, if true, reflects deep-rooted divisions and narrow-mindedness within the industry.
Public Sentiment Turns Against Absentees
Across Telangana, fans and cinema enthusiasts have questioned whether these stars truly respect the state. Many expressed disappointment that stars, who gained immense wealth and fame in Telangana, did not bother to show up for an event honouring the late Gaddar, a beloved figure in the state’s cultural landscape. Some critics argue that missing such a ceremony amounts to rejecting the government’s gesture of respect.
Future of Government-Film Industry Relations
Observers warn that if such indifference continues, the healthy partnership between the film industry and the Telangana government may suffer. While the event was meant to honour excellence, it also revealed uncomfortable cracks within the industry. It was not merely about skipping an event; it was about disregarding an opportunity to strengthen ties with the state that has supported the cinema sector for decades.
