Bollywood actress Kajol sparked controversy after calling Hyderabad’s Ramoji Film City, “one of the most haunted places in the world,” during promotional activities for her film ‘Maa.’ While conversing with Galatta India, her statement received severe backlash from fans and people associated with the industry, which led to further clarifications from the actress.
The Controversy
In an interview, Kajol was asked a question about jinxed places and if she felt anything eerie around them while working in films. She shared that there are certain places where one feels some sort of energy and used Ramojiaya Film Studio as an example saying it is ‘a prime example’ of being haunted. “There are quite a few places like that. A prime example is Ramoji Rao Studios in Hyderabad which is considered one of the most haunted places in the world. I am lucky enough not to have seen anything (ghosts), though” she remarked.
Many people were furious regarding paying Ramoji Film City a visit because they claimed it was being unfairly featured alongside famous landmarks simply due to erroneous allegations made by celebrities like Kajol who claim to bring up such topics for irrelevant reasons or misrepresentation without considering facts.
Some social media users have claimed that she is engaging in sensationalism to market her upcoming horror film, whereas other users defended her right to share her lived experiences.
Kajol’s Response
Thanking on X (formerly Twitter), Kajol responded with a video defending the backlash by explaining her comments about the film city.
“I wish to address my earlier remark about Ramoji Film City in the context of promoting my film MAA. I have filmed multiple projects at Ramoji Film City and stayed there many times over the years. I have always found it to be a very professional environment for filmmaking, and I have seen so many tourists enjoying themselves. It’s a great destination and absolutely safe for families and children.”
She further detailed that her remarks were made as part of the narrative about negative energies that accompanied her in different places during her career.
Public Reception
Responses to Kajol’s explanation were equally balanced between positive and negative. While some appreciated her efforts for directly addressing this issue, others seemed less convinced, criticizing the authenticity of his words instead, claiming they came under public pressure.
Critics commented on social media, praising her for being honest, while others were skeptical, noting that such drama often occurs during a film’s publicity cycle.
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Conclusion
In this case, Kajol’s explanation has successfully mitigated the controversy further while also strengthening Ramoji Film City’s image as a safe and professional workplace for filmmakers and guests. The film Maa, starring Kajol and directed by Vishal Furia, is scheduled to hit theaters on June 27 after being produced by Ajay Devgn, Jyoti Deshpande, and Kumar Mangat Pathak.
The matter demonstrates the ease with which intemperate celebrity comments can turn into national debates if they invoke sensitive issues or institutions held dear by the people. Her response clarifies that she knows very well what was at stake and did work to control the narrative no matter how inconvenient it was to protect her image.
Written by: Pranjal Bapna