Arshad Warsi recalls how Prabhas backlash made him practise 'self-censorship'

Arshad Warsi. Pic via Instagram

Almost two years after his remarks on Prabhas in Kalki 2898 AD triggered a massive backlash, Arshad Warsi says the episode has changed the way he interacts with people publicly. The actor admitted that after being heavily trolled by Prabhas' fans, he now prefers to keep his humour reserved for close friends, even though he believes people should not take jokes so seriously.

Arshad Warsi on Prabhas controversy

Reflecting on the controversy, Arshad revealed that he has become a "big believer in self-censorship." Speaking in a recent interview with News18, he shared that he only cracks jokes with people he knows well because he understands their personalities and boundaries. "I only joke with my friends," he said, explaining that if he isn't familiar with someone, he avoids making humorous remarks altogether because he doesn't know how they might react.

While Arshad admitted that the incident made him more cautious, he maintained that audiences should also learn to take jokes in the right spirit. According to him, "people need to lighten up." At the same time, he clarified that he too has personal boundaries when it comes to humour. The actor said he isn't particularly fond of comedy that relies on insulting people or making derogatory remarks, adding that he also doesn't enjoy sexual comedies. Calling it a matter of personal choice, Arshad explained that everyone has different tastes, and for him, self-censorship is simply about knowing where to draw the line.

The controversy dates back to 2024, when Arshad, during an interaction with Samdish Bhatia, criticised Prabhas' appearance in Kalki 2898 AD and remarked that the superstar looked like "a joker." He had added that he wanted to see Prabhas in a rugged, Mad Max-style avatar instead. The comment quickly snowballed into one of the biggest online debates of the year, drawing criticism from fans as well as members of the film industry.

Arshad Warsi's comment gets reaction

Among those who reacted was Nani, who initially dismissed Arshad's remarks while promoting his film Saripodhaa Sanivaaram, before later expressing regret over his own response. Meanwhile, Kalki 2898 AD director Nag Ashwin chose a lighter approach, saying Arshad could have used better words but adding that he hoped people would eventually praise Prabhas' performance in the sequel.

On the work front, Arshad has a packed slate ahead with Dhamaal 4, Golmaal 5 and King. Prabhas, meanwhile, will next be seen in Fauzi, Spirit and the sequel to Kalki 2898 AD.