11 January,2026 04:15 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Chiranjeevi
Ahead of its Sankranti release, Chiranjeevi and Nayanthara starrer Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu has found itself at the centre of online discussion after ratings and reviews were disabled on BookMyShow following a court order. The move, taken before the film's theatrical release, has triggered mixed reactions among audiences, with many questioning the need to block public feedback.
Users visiting Chiranjeevi's film's BookMyShow page are greeted with a message that reads, "Ratings and reviews disabled as per court order." This means viewers will not be able to rate or review the film on the ticketing platform until further notice, a step that is relatively rare for big-budget releases.
According to industry chatter, the makers sought legal intervention amid concerns over fake reviews and coordinated negative rating campaigns that often surface around major releases. Over the past few years, several films have been impacted by manipulated online ratings, which producers argue can influence audience perception even before people watch the film.
However, the decision has not gone down well with a section of social media users. On Reddit, one user remarked, "For MSVPG, audience can't rate on BookMyShow," while another criticised the move, saying, "Imagine being so insecure that you disable consumer ratings for your product." A third comment read, "This just makes people more curious about what they're trying to hide."
At the same time, some users defended the court order, pointing out the growing misuse of online platforms. "Fake ratings have become a real issue. At least this gives the film a fair chance," a Reddit user commented, adding that genuine feedback can still emerge through word of mouth.
Directed by Anil Ravipudi, Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu is positioned as a mass entertainer with family appeal and is one of the most anticipated Telugu releases of the festive season. The film also features a special appearance by Venkatesh, adding to the buzz surrounding its release.
The move has reignited a broader conversation about the power of digital ratings and whether blocking them protects creativity or silences audience voices. While supporters believe it shields films from targeted negativity, critics argue that ratings are an essential part of consumer choice.
As the film gears up for release, all eyes are now on how audiences will respond once they finally watch it, ratings or no ratings.
