Mahi V Raghav, the director of 'Yatra', has issued a statement ahead of the release of the YSR biopic. He has tried to obliterate the perception that 'Yatra' is a partisan film made with the agenda of promoting YSRCP.

"I have been fortunate and it is truly an honour to tell the story of a great leader Dr. Y S Rajashekar Reddy garu. I am grateful for the unconditional support of YSR garu’s family and millions of his admirers. Our entire team gave their best. Let us not quantify it or make it a race; let it be a celebration to rejoice and cherish his journey," the director says.

He adds that NT Rama Rao, the TDP founder, was a great son of the soil. "Both NTR garu and YSR garu are the sons of this soil and proud Telugu legends who left behind a glorious legacy. Let our differences of opinion and disagreements not be a reason for disrespecting them. My love for my YSR or Chiranjeevi garu has never made me hate anyone," he adds.

Will this appeal work with all sections of audiences? Let's see.

The film releases on February 8.