Mythological/historical films are no strangers to controversies in a diverse country like ours. From umbrage being taken by the descendants of a historical person to offence alleged by the legatees among groups - we have seen it all. The bigger a film, the greater is the controversy. Jodhaa-Akbar, Dasavatharam, Da Vinci Code and the like have especially seen sensational controversies pre- and post-release.

Days before the start of the shoot of Om Namo Venkatesaya (a film based on the legend of Hathiram Baba) on July 2, the K Raghavendra Rao film is in the midst of a controversy, albeit a potentially mild one. The Hathiram Mutt in Chittoor district has reportedly raised objections over the filmmakers not consulting them before launching the film. The mutt has reportedly said that distortion of facts in the name of creative liberties won't be tolerated.

There is a perception that the makers will easily convince the Mutt about their genuine motives because the 'Darshakendrudu' himself is a TTD member. The fact that Akkineni Nagarjuna commands a lot of respect in the society will only be to the film's advantage.