• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

Bigg Boss Telugu 9: During the latest weekend episode of Bigg Boss Telugu 9, host Nagarjuna Akkineni showed strong support for actor-director Pradeep Ranganathan after the latter faced criticism about his looks during the promotion of his upcoming film Dude in Hyderabad. Directed by Keerthiswaran and starring Pradeep Ranganathan and Mamitha Baiju, Dude is scheduled to release in cinemas on October 17, 2025.

Addressing the issue on the show, Nagarjuna drew parallels between Pradeep and Tamil cinema icons Rajinikanth and Dhanush. He said, “A few decades back, a merupu teega (lightning) came to cinema and changed its fate his name was Rajinikanth. Years later, another merupu teega came, someone slim and full of energy Dhanush. Now, I see another such lightning in Pradeep.” The remark visibly moved Pradeep, who replied, “Sir, those are big words, and coming from you, they truly mean the world to me.” Nagarjuna also praised Pradeep’s filmmaking style, adding, “I’ve seen both your films, and I really loved them. It’s hard to tell a heart-touching story in a modern way, but Love Today and Dragon did that beautifully. They’re the kind of films that break language barriers.”

Meanwhile, the discussion came shortly after a press event in Hyderabad, where a reporter had told Pradeep, “Don’t take this negatively, but you don’t look like hero material.” Responding calmly, Pradeep said, “Hard work is definitely there. But more than anything, I think people see themselves in me. When they watch my films, they feel like they’re the hero.” Veteran actor Sarathkumar, who stars alongside Pradeep in Dude, immediately defended him, saying, “You cannot say someone isn’t hero material. A person’s looks don’t define their worth. Anyone who does good for others is a hero.”

ALSO READ: Dude Trailer Out: Pradeep Ranganathan And Mamitha Baiju Promise A Quirky Tamil Love Drama Packed With Fun And Emotion

On the other hand, actor Kiran Abbavaram also voiced support, adding, “It’s not right to body shame an actor who came from another state to promote his film. We all coexist, and respect is important.”