HYDERABAD, India, 29 January 2008 — Telugu movie actor Chiranjeevi yesterday apologized to fellow actor Rajasekhar for an attack by his fans.
Speaking to newsmen after calling on Rajasekhar and the members of his family, Chiranjeevi, better known as Chiru, said that he was told Sunday night about the remarks made by Rajasekhar about him at Bhimavaram. He was informed yesterday morning about the attack on Rajasekhar by his fans and he immediately decided to call on him.
Chiru said that in a democracy, every one has the right to express his views. “Anyone can voice his protest if his feelings are hurt by remarks by someone else, but it is wrong to resort to physical attacks. The reaction from the fans was unnecessary and unfortunate. I disapprove of it and strongly condemn the incident,” he said.
Referring to Rajasekhar’s statement that “Chiru has no political experience to start a party and I won’t join his party,” Chiru said that it was the actor’s personal opinion. “What he said is true. There was no need for anyone to be so upset about the remark. Even if one’s feelings are hurt, there is no need to react in a violent way. It is not in my nature to condone such acts. I ask my fans and followers to exercise restraint and not to resort to violence or physical attacks,” he added.
A car carrying Rajasekhar and his family members was attacked in Panjagutta in the heart of Hyderabad on Sunday morning. The actor, his wife Jeevita and their two teenaged daughters received minor injuries and the windowpanes of the car were smashed in the assault. The actor and his family received treatment at a private hospital.
Police registered a case on a complaint by Jeevita, a former actress. She alleged that people in four cars chased them and attacked their vehicle. “They threw stones and chased us. They wanted to kill us. Anything could have happened,” said Jeevita.
Following the incident, police stepped up security for Rajasekhar and his family. The actor appealed to Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy to provide security to him and his family members.
