Rishab Shetty’s Kannada Speech at Hyderabad Event Sparks Boycott Trend

The pre-release event of Kantara: Chapter 1 in Hyderabad on September 28, 2025, has stirred controversy after actor-director Rishab Shetty addressed the gathering primarily in Kannada. While the film is being promoted as a pan-India release, several Telugu fans expressed disappointment, viewing the move as insensitive in a Telugu-speaking region.

Soon after the event, social media witnessed a flood of criticism, with the hashtag #BoycottKantaraChapter1 trending heavily. Within hours, it crossed over 25,000 mentions, reflecting the intensity of the backlash. Some fans linked their anger to broader grievances such as rising ticket prices in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Others recalled earlier instances of disruptions faced by Telugu film events in Karnataka, suggesting that such regional sensitivities remain unresolved.

Despite the controversy, the event also featured lighter moments. Rishab Shetty’s warm camaraderie with Young Tiger Jr. NTR drew cheers from the crowd, highlighting cinema’s ability to transcend linguistic boundaries. Supporters of Shetty defended his choice, stating that speaking in Kannada was an expression of pride in his roots and should not overshadow the film’s larger message or pan-India appeal.

The incident has reignited debates on the delicate balance between regional identity and cross-market acceptance in South Indian cinema. As more films are positioned for nationwide audiences, language continues to play a critical role in shaping how promotional events are perceived.

With Kantara: Chapter 1 slated for release on October 2, industry watchers will be keen to see whether the boycott calls in the Telugu states have a tangible impact on its box-office performance, given the region’s importance for the film’s success.