MAA condemns Chalapathi Rao’s remarks

Hours after Chalapathi Rao issued a statement apologizing for his controversial remarks against women during the pre-release event of 'Rarandoi Veduka Chuddam', Movie Artistes' Association has too has issued an apology on behalf of the senior artiste this afternoon.

MAA President Shivaji Raja said, "Chalapathi Rao garu never made such statements in the past.  He is very chilled out on shooting locations.  If anything, he speaks wise things to people.  For the first time ever, though, he made foot-in-mouth statements.  He spoke with me and expressed regret about what he said the other day.  MAA condemns his objectionable comments against women.  He is feeling sorry and has urged MAA to forgive him.  We hereby promise that our artistes won't talk like this in future.  In case any one makes such remarks, stern action would be taken.  Such a person will be stripped off of his/her MAA membership.  Chalapathi Rao garu has apologized to women's associations as well.  He was ready to attend this press meet and apologize publicly.  But we said no".

Naresh, MAA's general secretary, said, "We at MAA unanimously condemn his statements.  It's important to maintain decorum in a public event.  There is a thin line of difference between humour and offending remarks.  Social media is ever vigilant.  This is a lesson for us.  There are personal opinions, but one can't express all of them like this.  MAA has a responsibility to take care that this won't be repeated in future.  We are hereby apologizing to all women.  Chalapathi Rao garu is in a state of shock.  He is going to TV channels and apologizing for his remarks.  MAA is going to bring out a resolution regarding how to deal with those who make offensive remarks.  We urge those who have filed cases against him to withdraw them.  In the past too, MAA has issued warnings to those who made wrongful statements".

Joint Secretary Edida Sriram and EC member Suresh Kondeti also participated in the event.