Need More Decency at Press Meets!

In recent days, press meets for new film releases have turned into platforms for controversy rather than genuine conversation. Some people seem more interested in grabbing attention with uncomfortable questions than discussing the movie itself.

We’ve seen it before, like during the DJ Tillu promotions, when actress Neha Shetty was asked an awkward question that became a viral moment. The other day at the Telusu Kadha movie event, a lady journalist shocked everyone by asking Siddhu Jonnalagadda if he was a “womanizer” in real life. Earlier too, the same journalist questioned Tamil actor Pradeep Ranganathan about not being “hero material,” which caused unnecessary negativity even in another state.

This isn’t the first time such things have happened, and sadly, it might not be the last either. But some basic sense and respect are much needed here. The film industry and the media share a professional relationship, one makes films, and the other helps them reach the audience. That doesn’t give either side the right to cross boundaries or humiliate anyone.

Actors attend interviews and press meets to promote their hard work, not to face offensive remarks. If media personnel realize this simple truth, such issues wouldn’t repeat.

This problem has now grown to a level where cameras at press meets are focused only on the stage, deliberately avoiding shots of journalists. It might look like an insult to the media, but it’s a result of repeated incidents like these.

Recently, actress Manchu Lakshmi even wrote an open letter expressing her pain over an uncomfortable interview, and it ended with an apology. That should be a reminder to everyone, dignity matters. Going forward, a little caution and courtesy can save both sides from unnecessary embarrassment.