Tamil actress Kasturi recently sparked significant controversy after making comments about Telugu people during an event in Tamil Nadu. She remarked that Telugu people came to Tamil Nadu to serve women in the royal harem and that those who arrived now claim to be Tamil, making grand statements about their heritage. She further questioned, “If that’s the case, who are the Telugu people to say that the Brahmins who came here long ago are not Tamil?”
Her remarks led to widespread backlash from the Telugu community, prompting Kasturi to clarify that she did not intend to criticize the Telugu people as a whole. Despite her clarification, the backlash continued, and she eventually issued a public apology.
My statement.
Jai Hind. pic.twitter.com/KSz0BRxz6D— Kasturi (@KasthuriShankar) November 5, 2024
In her apology letter, Kasturi stated:
“I have always lived beyond caste and regional differences. I am a true nationalist and have never viewed regions separately. It is my privilege to have a special bond with the Telugu community. Growing up, I learned about the Nayakar kings, Kattabomman Nayak (Veerapandiya Kattabrahman), and the hymns of Tyagaraja. My career in Telugu cinema has been a wonderful journey. I sincerely apologize… The Telugu people have given me not only fame but also love, affection, and family. My comments were directed at a few individuals, not the entire Telugu community. I did not intend to hurt my Telugu family. I regret this unintended incident and ask for forgiveness.”
Kasturi also assured that in the spirit of fostering friendship, she would withdraw all comments related to the Telugu community made during her speech on November 3, 2024. She further urged the Telugu community in Tamil Nadu to support Tamil Brahmins in their fight for dignity.
Her apology letter emphasized her desire to mend the relationship and reaffirmed her respect for the Telugu people.