Telugu actor and Deputy CM of Andhra Pradesh Pawan Kalyan has recently sparked a new debate with his sharp remarks on Bollywood. In an interview with Organiser Weekly, he criticised Hindi cinema for becoming overly commercial and straying from its cultural roots due to globalisation.

Kalyan said, “Over time, it changed due to filmmakers that came from different generations. Especially, Hindi cinema was influenced by globalisation. Since then, there are some movies which created buffoonery out of culturally connected characters.”

He questioned the use of generic terms like “Indian cinema” and said that India’s various film industries have their own independent identities and sensibilities. He also added that South Indian films are still close to Indian values ​​and traditions, while Bollywood has compromised the authenticity of culture in pursuit of profits and global audiences.

Citing Aamir Khan’s Dangal as one of the rare Bollywood films to remain culturally rooted, he said, “Nowadays, South Indian films are representing Indian culture more. It has been done in Hindi cinema for a certain period. For example, if you see Dangal, Dangal represents Indian culture. It was a rooted film which has a connection with your Bharateeyata. That kind of cinema has become rare these days.”

Meanwhile on the work front, Pawan Kalyan is gearing up much awaited period action drama Hari Hara Veera Mallu, which is set to hit the theaters on July 24, 2025. He has the film ‘They Call Him OG’ lined up next, slated for a September 25 release this year. He also has Ustaad Bhagat Singh on his calendar next.