R Madhavan, who is gearing up for the release of his maiden directorial venture Rocketry: The Nambi Effect, recently found himself at the receiving end of criticism for a remark on the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) Mars orbiter mission.
The 3 Idiots actor had said that the ISRO scientists successfully launched a rocket to reach Mar’s orbit as they used the information given in Panchang. In a video that surfaced on Twitter, Madhavan can be seen speaking about how Panchang proved to be of help for the Indian space body.
The translation of Madhavan’s statement, which was in Tamil, was shared by musician TM Krishna on the micro-blogging site. Sharing the 52-year-old actor’s video, Krishna wrote, “In case you do not understand Tamil the gist is Indian rockets did not have 3 engines ( solid, liquid and cryogenic) that helps western rockets propel themselves into mars orbit. But since Indian lacked that they used all the information in the panchangam.”
As Krishna’s tweet gradually gathered traction, a section of the internet users targeted Madhavan for his remark. However, the actor-turned-director soon issued a clarification regarding his comment.
Taking to Twitter, Madhavan acknowledged his error of calling Almanac a Panchang. He wrote, “I deserve this for calling the Almanac the “Panchang” in tamil. Very ignorant of me. Though this cannot take away for the fact that what was achieved with just 2 engines by us in the Mars Mission. A record by itself. @NambiNOfficial Vikas engine is a rockstar.”
Soon after Madhavan admitted his mistake, many social media users lauded him for being brave enough to do so.
Meanwhile, Madhavan is busy with the promotions of Rocketry: The Nambi Effect which is inspired by the life of Nambi Narayanan, a former scientist and aerospace engineer.
Starring Madhavan in the titular role, the film also features international actors like Phyllis Logan, Vincent Riotta and Ron Donachie along with having special appearances by Shah Rukh Khan and Suriya.
Rocketry: The Nambi Effect will hit the screens on July 1.
