‘Felt let down by Hanuman’: SS Rajamouli’s controversial confession fuels massive debate

Mumbai: Filmmaker SS Rajamouli’s unexpected remarks at the Globetrotter event in Varanasi have set off a major online debate after technical glitches derailed the highly anticipated showcase of his upcoming film.

The event, planned as a grand reveal, was hit by repeated audio-visual failures, leaving the ‘RRR’ (2022) director visibly emotional and frustrated.

At one point, Rajamouli openly expressed his disappointment, saying he felt “let down by Lord Hanuman.”

“This is an emotional moment for me. I don’t believe in God. My dad came and said Lord Hanuman will take care of things from behind. Is this how he takes care?” he said, adding that the situation angered him deeply.

Rajamouli apologised to fans who had flown in from different countries to witness the first glimpse of the film. He referenced his father, veteran writer Vijayendra Prasad, who had earlier invoked Hanuman’s blessings in his speech.

The director also revealed that his wife, a devoted Hanuman follower, often treats the deity like a close friend—something that also triggered his irritation in the moment.

The filmmaker later clarified that his anger stemmed from the pressure and emotional weight of the event, not from any disrespect.

Netizens React

Rajamouli’s comments have split the internet. Many pointed out the irony that the filmmaker—whose works like ‘Baahubali’ (2017) and ‘RRR’ draw heavily from Indian mythological themes—claimed he doesn’t believe in God.

One user wrote:

“How can a non-believer make movies inspired by God and epics? His father said ‘Jai Shri Ram’, and Rajamouli constantly borrows mythological references. Hard to believe he’s an atheist.”

Another criticised him, saying:

“People who don’t believe in God always act like they’re cool… unnecessary.”

Others defended him, noting the emotional pressure:

“Let’s be honest, everyone questions God in tough moments. He was clearly stressed and overwhelmed.”

Rajamouli’s upcoming film ‘Varanasi’, starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Prithviraj Sukumaran, is scheduled for a summer 2027 release.