Prakash Raj: The ‘villain’ roars again in Kozhikode
Entertainment: Actor Prakash Raj, known for his versatility from Kollywood to Bollywood, is once again in the spotlight – not for his films, but for his outspoken views on Indian cinema. Known for bringing life to villainous and character roles, Prakash Raj has carved a national identity for himself as a distinctive actor. In recent years, he has frequently been in the news for his outspoken criticism of the central government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Recently, following the Shivaji controversy, he made headlines again during his participation in the Kerala Literature Festival in Kozhikode. During the event, his comments on Bollywood became a topic of discussion. Prakash Raj stated that Bollywood has become disconnected from its roots and often abandons the soul of its stories. He said that while the industry appears colorful and glamorous on the surface, it has become lifeless inside, comparing Bollywood to the wax figures at Madame Tussauds. His comments quickly went viral on social media, sparking a heated debate online. In contrast, Prakash Raj praised South Indian cinema, highlighting how Tamil and Malayalam filmmakers are creating powerful, socially relevant stories. He said that films like Jai Bhim and Maamannan realistically portray social issues, caste-based conflicts, and the suffering of Dalits, allowing audiences to connect with authentic narratives. According to him, for cinema to be truly impactful, it must remain connected to its cultural roots; films made solely for glamour and commercial gain can alienate audiences. He criticized Bollywood for prioritizing glamour, money, looks, reels, and promotions over good storytelling, which, according to him, has led to a disconnect with the audience. His comments are now being widely discussed online, with fans debating whether his criticisms stem from Bollywood’s neglect of authentic stories or the limited opportunities within the Hindi film industry. Amidst these discussions, Prakash Raj also garnered attention with a viral picture alongside astronaut Sunita Williams, highlighting his presence on a global platform. On the professional front, Prakash Raj continues to impress audiences with his powerful roles in films such as Varanasi, Spirit, Gudaachari 2, Decoy, Father, and Miracle. Notably, his upcoming projects include a mix of pan-world and pan-India films, further solidifying his position as a versatile and globally recognized actor.
