There is a quote going viral where Jr NTR is reportedly blaming the audience for the 'underperformance' of Devara – Part 1. This seems odd, as Devara, despite receiving mixed reviews, is said to be performing well in theatres. According to box office figures provided by the producers on October 7, Devara – Part 1 has grossed INR 466 crore worldwide. The film is rumoured to have been made on a budget of INR 300 crore. Directed by Koratala Siva, Devara – Part 1 also stars Saif Ali Khan and Janhvi Kapoor. ‘Devara Part 1’ Movie Review: Jr NTR Is Terrific, Saif Ali Khan Is Decent and Janhvi Kapoor Is Gratuitous in Koratala Siva’s Overstretched Actioner.

So, if the makers are claiming success for Devara – Part 1, why would Jr NTR be blaming the audience for the film's supposed underperformance? In the statement going viral, he appears to suggest that people have become increasingly negative and critical, unable to enjoy films in a more innocent and carefree manner, and have grown overly judgemental.

Check Out Jr NTR's Viral 'Statement'

Did Jr NTR Really Say All That?

The statement has actually been taken out of context. Jr NTR and Devara director Koratala Siva recently gave an interview to anchor Suma Kanakala, where they discussed their film and its blockbuster success. Both were upbeat about the film’s box office performance, and neither suggested that Devara had underperformed. ‘Devara Part 1’ Ending Explained: Major Twists, Unanswered Questions, and What To Expect in Sequel of Jr NTR, Saif Ali Khan and Janhvi Kapoor’s Movie.

Towards the end of the interview, the host asked Jr NTR about his children, Abhay and Bhargav, and their reactions to his new movie. It was then that the superstar spoke about the innocence children possess when watching films, in contrast to the increasingly negative perspective of adults. He said, "We as an audience have become very negative these days. We are not able to enjoy a film innocently anymore. When I watch my sons, they don’t care about which actor or which film they are watching; they just enjoy movies. I wonder why we can’t be that innocent anymore."

Watch the Interview Below:

Whether or not you agree with his observation is another matter, but Jr NTR’s comment was not specifically about Devara. It was a general reflection on how audiences approach films today. While Devara did receive mixed reviews, its box office performance remains unaffected.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 09, 2024 02:25 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).