The film, directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Arun Shankar, features Deverakonda as a rebellious youth leader who rises against a corrupt government. However, a particular scene—where Deverakonda’s character burns a flag symbolizing a fictional political group—sparked backlash from several real-life regional political parties, who claim the scene mirrors their ideology and symbols too closely.
Protests erupted outside theatres in Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and parts of tamil Nadu, with demonstrators demanding the immediate removal of the scene. Some theatres even briefly halted screenings amid security concerns, although most resumed after additional police deployment.
Despite the uproar, #WeStandWithKingdom trended across X (formerly Twitter), with fans lauding the film’s bold storytelling and Vijay’s intense performance. Many netizens have called the controversy a deliberate attempt to derail the film’s box office prospects. “Art must not be silenced. Kingdom speaks truth to power,” wrote one user, echoing the sentiments of many.
Sources close to the production claim the scene was purely fictional and cleared by the censor board, adding that any resemblance is coincidental. Vijay Deverakonda, known for his unapologetic roles and strong fan base, has yet to issue an official statement, but insiders say he’s “unshaken and proud” of the film’s message.
As the debate intensifies, Kingdom continues to draw packed houses—perhaps proving that controversy, once again, is the best publicity.
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