Telugu cinema stars like Prabhas, Allu Arjun, Jr NTR, Ram Charan, and others have dominated the global box office in recent years. However, the current discussion surrounding these actors is not about collections or content, but about their changing physical appearances. In recent months, social media has been abuzz with reactions to the “strong” and “weak” looks sported by top Telugu stars, particularly Prabhas, Jr NTR, and Pawan Kalyan. Fans have been scrutinising every detail, raising concerns whenever a star appears thinner, bulkier, or experiments with a new hairstyle.
Producer M S Raju believes such reactions are being blown out of proportion. “Telugu superstars are constantly under a microscope. Fans tend to panic even if an actor looks slightly different at a public event. But it is not something very serious,” he explains. According to him, actors often undergo frequent makeovers to suit their roles. “They have to change their looks and work on their bodies for new characters. They cannot keep repeating the same appearance.”
For instance, Jr NTR received mixed reactions following his weight loss and thick beard after Devara. Some felt his styling appeared inconsistent. “Actors and directors know what they are doing. We should wait to see how the look appears on screen rather than judging based on social media posts or public appearances,” Raju advises.
Similarly, Prabhas’ recent off-screen looks have drawn attention. His ponytail at The Raja Saab pre-release and rugged, muscular look in the Spirit poster sparked speculation. “Sandeep Reddy Vanga is known for extensively working on his actors’ appearances, giving them long hair, beards, and sculpted physiques. Prabhas is clearly preparing for a new role,” Raju adds.
Pawan Kalyan also found himself at the centre of online chatter. After sporting long hair and a stylised avatar in OG, he surprised fans by cutting his hair short in real life. Rival fan groups were quick to comment, but Raju urges caution: “Social media reactions should be ignored. Superstars are normal human beings and are free to look the way they want. Hair length does not affect their charisma or stardom.”
On the other hand, Mahesh Babu has earned praise for his fit appearance and long hair for Rajamouli’s Varanasi, while Ram Charan and Allu Arjun have made minimal changes between films—a strategy well received by fans.
So, are Tollywood stars going through a “lean phase” in terms of looks? “I don’t think so,” Raju concludes. “Our new-age superstars are aware of evolving trends in style and presentation. These reactions are temporary, and once the films release, perceptions will naturally change.”
Raasi Calls Out Anasuya Over Insensitive Comments
Popular actress Raasi has reacted strongly to actress and television anchor Anasuya Bharadwaj amid the controversy sparked by actor Shivaji’s comments at the Dhandoraa pre-release event. Raasi’s response came after Anasuya and several others criticised Shivaji for his remarks on the way heroines dress. While Raasi clarified that Shivaji’s observations were not entirely incorrect, she felt the manner in which they were expressed was inappropriate.
Sharing a personal experience that deeply affected her, Raasi recalled an incident from a comedy show anchored by Anasuya. During a skit, comedian Hyper Aadi made a remark referring to “Raasi Gari Phalalu.” Raasi stated that Anasuya’s on-stage reaction—questioning the phrase in a suggestive tone—was equally disturbing. She questioned how one woman could speak about another woman in such a manner on a public platform.
Raasi further revealed that she was once invited to participate in a comedy show planning a skit based on her popular film Preyasi Raave. She declined the offer, explaining that she was uncomfortable with content that involved mockery or humiliation. According to Raasi, Anasuya was also part of that episode, which added to her disappointment.
Strongly condemning body-shaming and insensitive language, Raasi emphasised that no individual has the right to demean another person under the guise of entertainment. She also revealed that she had seriously considered taking legal action over the issue but ultimately chose not to pursue it after her mother advised her to let it go.