Hand shake that trips Prakash Raj When co-director of Aagadu, Surya, wished Prakash Raj good morning and extended his arm for a handshake, little did he realize that this innocuous gesture would snowball into a major controversy.
So miffed was Prakash Raj, reportedly at the gesture expressed by what felt was a 'lowly co-director' that he abused Surya severely in un parliamentary language.
A thoroughly stunned and upset Surya kept quiet as he did not want the incident to affect the day's shoot. But Prakash Raj in the meanwhile called off the day's shoot and left.
Surya then brought the incident to the notice of the director Srinu Vaitla and the producers. They immediately took a decision to replace Prakash Raj with Sonu Sood.
Surya then filed a formal complaint with the 'Tollywood Directors Association'. This was the version of events given by Surya to the Tollywood Directors Association.
Speaking on behalf of the the Association, Veera Sanker said, 'Yes, we have received the complaint. We have forwarded the complaint to the Movie Artists Association (MAA) as Prakash Raj is a member of MAA.
We are yet to get a response from them. If they fail to give us a response, then the matter will be forwarded to a Coordination Committee which will comprise of leading people from all film bodies of Tollywood.
They will look into the issue and deliver a verdict. The Tollywood Directors Association shall respect their verdict.' If found to be guilty, what possible disciplinary action could be taken against Prakash Raj?
'A decision of non-co-operation with Prakash Raj may be taken if he is found guilty,' says Veera Sanker. He clarifies, 'See, as per the existing laws, a 'ban' cannot be imposed on anyone. So, the industry will tone down its association with that particular person.'
When contacted Prakash Raj for his version of the events. Responding to our request, Prakash Raj said, 'On my behalf our Movie Artists Association, Producers Council and Film Chambers to gather are questioning director associations prejudiced activities against me.
This is the present development will talk once things are clear in two days. Thanks.' So, in all likelihood, there should be further clarity on the matter in a couple of days.
News Posted: 24 April, 2014
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