Mumbai: Rana Daggubati, a prominent figure in the Indian film industry, has found himself embroiled in a situation of unease after his recent comments at an event gained widespread attention.
During an event centered around the film "King Of Kotha," featuring Dulquer Salmaan, Rana Daggubati made remarks about a "big Hindi cinema heroine" wasting Dulquer's time on set by engaging in a phone call with her London-based partner. Given that Sonam Kapoor and Dulquer have previously collaborated on "The Zoya Factor" and that Sonam's husband Anand Ahuja resides in London, speculations arose that Rana Daggubati was referring to Sonam Kapoor.
Responding to the unfolding situation, Rana Daggubati took to social media to clarify his stance.
He wrote, "I am genuinely troubled by the negativity that has been aimed at Sonam due to my comments, that are totally untrue and were meant entirely in a light-hearted manner. As friends, we often exchange playful banter, and I deeply regret that my words have been misinterpreted." Expressing his apology, he added, "I take this opportunity to express my heartfelt apologies to Sonam and Dulquer, both of whom I hold in great esteem. I hope this clarification puts an end to any speculation and misunderstanding. Thank you for your understanding."
In the original context, Rana Daggubati had intended to commend Dulquer Salmaan for his work ethic.
According to Pinkvilla, he said, "Dulquer was my junior at acting school. We became friends there. He is a very polite person. He's doing a Hindi movie and the producers are my friends. The shoot was happening near my house. I went there to meet Dulquer. While he was standing in the corner with the spot boy, a big Hindi heroine who was doing that movie was engrossed in a phone conversation about shopping in London with her husband. Her lack of focus affected the shots' quality, frustrating those on set. Despite the disruptions caused by the situation, Dulquer remained patient and understanding, defusing tension and maintaining a harmonious environment." He also mentioned that he addressed the issue with the film's producers.
In response, Sonam Kapoor took to Instagram Stories to share a quote from Eleanor Roosevelt, the former First Lady of the United States. The quote read, "Just a little something I'd like some people to know… especially when discussing things about people that are made up. Small minds discuss people; average minds discuss events; great minds discuss ideas."
Dulquer Salmaan's film "King Of Kotha" is scheduled for a global release on August 24.