Anudeep Katikala apologises after backlash over jokes on Pawan Kalyan, Niharika & Ram Charan

Days after his comments on Andhra Pradesh Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan went viral, comedian Anudeep Katikala has finally addressed the controversy surrounding his latest set. The comedian, who faced immense heat for mocking the marital history of the actor-politician, released a statement on Monday seeking to clarify his intent.

What happened?

In a recent stand-up set uploaded on YouTube on Wednesday, comedian Anudeep Katikala spoke about marriage and divorce, weaving in references to well-known Telugu film personalities. The controversy stems from a segment where he refers to the personal lives of Pawan Kalyan and Niharika Konidela. In the video, he says, “One thing I learnt from Pawan Kalyan is how to divorce your wife. That is a talent. Men should learn it.” Referring to Niharika Konidela’s divorce, he went on to quip, “If I was in Niharika Konidela’s situation, I would also call Pawan Kalyan only because he is the most experienced member in the family.” The set also included jokes on Ram Charan, where he comments on the actor’s financial standing in comparison to his wife, Upasana Kamineni Konidela.

Outrage erupts

The backlash transitioned from digital outrage to physical confrontation on Friday and Saturday. Viral footage showed a group of activists entering Street Comedy Club in Jubilee Hills during a live set. The group disrupted the performance, shouting, “Don’t comment on personal lives,” and demanded that the management produce Katikala immediately.


Internet weighs in on Anudeep’s comments

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