Internet Erupts Over Sivaji’s Comments on Women’s Dressing

Actor Sivaji, who has been busy with back-to-back projects in what he calls his second innings, is gearing up for the release of Dhandoraa, slated to hit theatres on December 25 amid multiple festive releases.

However, during the film’s pre-release event held on Monday, Sivaji’s remarks on women’s dressing sparked widespread debate and backlash on social media.

Addressing the gathering, Sivaji stated that a woman’s beauty does not lie in revealing clothes but in grace and dignity. He remarked that true beauty is reflected in traditional or well-covered attire rather than outfits that expose the body. According to him, when actresses wear what he termed inappropriate clothing, people may smile outwardly, but many silently question their choices, believing they could look better in modest attire. He further added that a woman represents nature itself.

The comments did not go down well with many, especially from within the film industry. Singer Chinmayi and actress Anasuya were among those who publicly expressed their disagreement on social media.

Chinmayi, in a strongly worded post on X (formerly Twitter), criticised Sivaji for offering unsolicited advice and using objectionable language while speaking about women’s clothing. She pointed out the hypocrisy in his remarks, questioning why cultural standards were selectively applied only to women while men faced no such scrutiny. Her post triggered extensive discussion online.

Anasuya, meanwhile, responded more subtly, sharing a post that read, “It’s my body, not yours,” which many interpreted as a direct reaction to the controversy.

Several social media users, including men, also took digs at Sivaji’s remarks. Interestingly, those present at the event appeared largely unresponsive during his speech, with no visible endorsement or reaction, possibly choosing to distance themselves from the emerging controversy.