5 Kollywood controversies of 2021

The ONV Cultural Academy had initially announced to felicitate Tamil lyricist Vairamuthu with its literary award. However, the decision was faced with a lot of backlash since the lyricist has been named by women as part of their #MeToo sexual harassment allegations. While the academy soon after announced that it will reconsider its decision, the lyricist announced that he chooses to refuse the award.

Musicians Arivu and Dhee rose to incredible fame for their breakout hit single 'Enjoy Enjaami', which was released earlier this year. While the talented musicians were featured in many publications, a particular magazine cover featuring Dhee and 'Neeye Oli' rapper Shan Vincent De Paul, prompted backlash from fans. Fans and admirers of Arivu, including Pa Ranjith questioned Arivu's 'sidelining' in the cover, since he had a huge part in 'Enjoy Enjaami''s success.

Actor Ashwin Kumar Lakshmikanthan who is making his debut as the lead role in the movie ‘Enna Solla Pogirai’ was under fire for his controversial speech at the audio launch of the movie. In his speech, he had said that he rejected '40 films' as he had dozed off during film narrations.

The actor, however, apologised for the controversial statement. In a video, Ashwin explained that his statements were made in a haste and were not intentional or to hurt anybody’s feelings. He added that he spoke with a free flow having gotten excited by the cheers of the crowd. He extended his apology seeking forgiveness in case his statement has caused grief to anybody.

While Tamil film 'Jai Bhim', a hard-hitting movie starring Manikandan, Suriya and Lijomol Jose was quick to become critically acclaimed, the film ran into trouble when a PMK leader expressed his offence. The controversy began when PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss wrote a letter to the actor for allegedly showing the Vanniyars in poor light. The filmmaker TJ Gnanavel took to Twitter to apologise if the film had hurt any sentiments. Threats were also made to actor Suriya, following which he was given cop protection.

Allu Arjun's recent release 'Pushpa' ran into controversy when its hit song 'Oo Solriya' released. Featuring Samantha, the song is a satirical and ironic take on female objectification in item songs. A case has been filed by a men's association against Samantha's dance number. The group reportedly filed a lawsuit against the song in an Andhra Pradesh court for portraying men as lustful through the lyrics and they have also asked that a ban be imposed on the song.