Jr NTR and Trivikram's film faces ban threat in Tamil Nadu; politician warns of severe repercussions

Jr NTR and Trivikram`s film in trouble (Pics/Instagram)

Actor Jr NTR is reuniting with director Trivikram Srinivas for a grand mythological spectacle based on Lord Murugan. However, the film has landed in controversy even before its title reveal. After the poster's caption referred to Lord Murugan as being "born in the North", Tamil Nadu politician Seeman slammed the makers, accused them of distorting Tamil culture, and called for the film to be banned while warning of severe repercussions.

TN politician criticises makers for distorting history

On Sunday, Tamil Nadu politician and Naam Tamilar Katchi leader Seeman issued a strongly worded statement on X (formerly Twitter), criticising the makers of the film. He warned that those who "distort the history" of Lord Murugan and "demean Tamilians" would face "severe consequences". Seeman further alleged that communities "lacking distinct identities, cultural elements, worship methods and divine traditions" had, over time, appropriated Tamil deities.

"From time immemorial, the most ancient, primal god of Tamils, inseparably intertwined with Tamil culture and way of life: Lord Muruga Peruman. He, too, the great Tamil race will not let slip away. Tamil is Murugan; Murugan is Tamil; the two are inseparable," reads a portion of his statement.

Jr NTR, Trivikram's film faces ban threat

Warning Jr NTR and the film's team of severe consequences, Seeman wrote, "I warn that the film crew must immediately abandon their attempts to fabricate and impose fictional tales - such as claiming Lord Murugan was born in the northern plains - under the guise of art. Failure to do so will result in facing the most severe repercussions."

He also urged the Tamil Nadu government to stop the film's release in the state, stating, "Considering that this film, which distorts Tamil culture and is created with the intent to hurt the sentiments of Tamils, could lead to serious law-and-order issues if released, I also strongly urge the Tamil Nadu government not to permit the screening of its Tamil version or Telugu version in Tamil Nadu."

More about Jr NTR, Trivikram's film

To note, NTR and Trvikram are reuniting after 8 years. On June 29, producer Naga Vamsi and Jr NTR shared the film's first-look poster, hinting at a mythological storyline and the possibility of Lord Murugan, or his divine weapon, the Vel (spear), playing a significant role in Jr NTR's character arc. They captioned the post: "Born in the North. Made in the Heart of America. Worship in the South. And now. A story for the universe."

The controversy stems from the reference to Lord Murugan's origins, with the caption stating that he was "born in the North." The claim drew criticism from many social media users in Tamil Nadu, who argued that Lord Murugan is deeply rooted in Tamil culture.

On the work front, NTR next has Dragon in his kitty.