Venkatesh and Anil Ravipudi have defended the normalization of toxic behaviour of a child character in their Sankranthi blockbuster, Sankranthiki Vasthunam. Venkatesh's onscreen son, Bulli Raju, is fond of vomitting expletives in the movie. In the film's most talked-about scene, Bulli Raju abuses elders with gay abandon. What is the takeaway for children? Isn't it ethically improper to milk such a problematic child for laughs?
Anil Ravipudi said that even a CBFC member had raised a concern. After the movie's release, a few psychologists have appeared on YouTube to hit out at the film. The director justified the character, saying Bulli Raju must serve as a cautionary tale. "You are not supposed to take the wrong lessons from OTT shows. That's the intent behind the character," the director said.
The character has been designed to entertain the audience. That's the clear tone and vibe carried by Bulli Raju. Nowhere in the film does any elder admonish him for turning toxic and using street language against neighbours and even his grandpa. As such the justification by Ravipudi doesn't cut it.
Venkatesh was asked about the explicit nature of content in his Netflix series, Rana Naidu. The actor suggested that he is not responsible for children getting corrupted by the show. Ideally, Venky should have stated that the show was not meant for children; he should have used the opportunity to appeal to parents to guide their children. But he got busy beating around the bush.
