Actor-producer Dulquer Salmaan has issued an apology following backlash over a dialogue in his latest production, ‘Loka Chapter 1: Chandra’, which was criticized for hurting the sentiments of Kannada audiences. The film, which recently released in Malayalam and was successful, premiered in Telugu as ‘Kotha Loka’.
The controversy arose after the villain in the film’s climax made allegedly inappropriate remarks about girls from Bengaluru. Additionally, the use of the term “daggar” (prostitute) in the dialogue fueled public outrage, prompting widespread criticism on social media, particularly from viewers in Karnataka.
In response, Salmaan’s production house, Wayfarer Films, released an official statement: “It has come to our attention that a dialogue in our film unintentionally hurt the sentiments of the people of Karnataka. We are concerned about this matter and had no intention of offending anyone. The controversial dialogue will be removed or modified at the earliest opportunity. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused and request that our apology be accepted.”
The film, starring Kalyani Priyadarshan and Naslen, and directed by Dominic Arun, was performing well at the box office when the controversy emerged. The production team has assured audiences that the necessary changes will be implemented promptly.
