‘My comments were inappropriate, I apologise’: Sivaji before Telangana Women’s Commission

Telugu actor Sivaji on Saturday appeared before the Telangana State Commission for Women after being summoned over his controversial and indecent remarks on women’s dressing made at a recent film event. During the inquiry, the actor tendered an unconditional apology and admitted that his comments were inappropriate.

According to an official release issued by the Commission, Sivaji “withdrew his comments in their entirety” and assured that he would henceforth “speak about and behave towards women with dignity and respect.”

The Commission, chaired by Nerella Sharada, strongly questioned the actor on the broader implications of such statements, particularly how harassment against women could ever be justified by attributing it to their attire.

The Chairperson reportedly underlined that such thinking shifts blame onto women instead of addressing systemic failures in ensuring their safety.

The controversy stems from remarks Sivaji made during an event of the film ‘Dhandora’ on December 22, where he digressed from his speech and appeared to police women’s clothing. The Telangana Women’s Commission took suo motu cognisance of the incident and directed him to appear for an inquiry.

Earlier, on December 23, Sivaji had posted a video message on social media platform X, acknowledging that he had used two “unparliamentary” words during his speech and apologising for them.

He claimed the remarks were unintended and said he was attempting to speak in the context of recent incidents where female actors were reportedly mobbed at public events.

However, the Commission observed that instead of ensuring safety and accountability at such events, attention was being diverted toward women’s attire. It noted that event organisers and security arrangements often escape scrutiny, while women artistes are unfairly blamed.

The Commission termed such remarks harmful to society and “particularly detrimental to the dignity of women.” It further advised film producers and directors to act responsibly in portraying women’s roles and costumes in cinema.

Additionally, organisers of film promotion events were instructed to put in place robust safety and security measures to protect women artistes, stressing that responsibility cannot be shifted onto the victims under any circumstances.