In 2023, India’s film industry achieved a historic first with two Oscar victories. ‘The Elephant Whispers’ by Guneet Monga was recognised with the Best Documentary (Short) award, and the critically acclaimed film RRR by SS Rajamouli took home the coveted prize for Best Original Music for Naatu Naatu.
The nation has been celebrating this incredible accomplishment, and many people have used social media to express their joy and pride. The remarkable achievement of team RRR, which is evidence of the talent and creativity of Indian filmmakers, is warmly praised by the Indian film community and moviegoers.
But, despite all the congrats and joy, the argument over regional pride has once again crept up in conversation. While most people are occupied with festivities, musician Adnan Sami recently criticised Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy’s tweet of congratulations to RRR, which sparked a flurry of opposing responses.
Adnan Sami criticises YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, the chief minister of Andhra Pradesh, for instilling national pride during celebrations.
It all began when YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, the chief minister of Andhra Pradesh, congratulated Team RRR on their Oscar victory. He posted on Twitter, saying:
“The #Telugu flag is flying higher! I’m filled with pride on a Telugu song, that so beautifully celebrates our folk heritage, being given its due recognition internationally today. @ssrajamouli, @tarak9999, @AlwaysRamCharan and @mmkeeravaani have truly redefined excellence! 1/2”
He added,
“Congratulations to @ssrajamouli, @tarak9999, @AlwaysRamCharan, @mmkeeravaani, @boselyricist, #PremRakshit, @kaalabhairava7, @Rahulsipligunj and the entire team of @RRRMovie. Thank you for making me, crores of Telugu people across the world and all Indians incredibly proud! 2/2”
However, soon the tweet gained a lot of negative reactions.
Adnan Sami, a singer, expressed his displeasure with the position and charged the chief minister of Andhra Pradesh with encouraging a “regional divide” inside the country.
On Twitter, Sami wrote,
“What a regional minded frog in a pond who can’t think about the ocean because it’s beyond his tiny nose!! Shame on you for creating regional divides & unable to embrace or preach national pride! Jai HIND!!”
The majority of internet users, however, took exception to his remarks and accused him of insulting the Chief Minister and hurting regional feelings.
Eventually, Sami updated his tweet, insisting that he never intended to denigrate any one language. He noted:
“My issue has never been about the language. My issue has been very simple… All languages, regardless of their origin & dialect are ultimately under the one umbrella of being INDIAN FIRST & then anything else- That’s all! I have sung innumerable songs in regional languages with the same effort & respect equally for all..”
What do you think about this controversy? Tell us your opinion in the comment section.
