Chinmayi slams Telugu actor Sivaji for remarks on women’s clothing at film event

Singer and actor Chinmayi Sripada has strongly criticised senior Telugu actor Sivaji for his remarks on women’s dressing sense made during a film event in Hyderabad. Sivaji’s comments, delivered at the pre-release function of Dhandora, sparked backlash online, with many calling them regressive and inappropriate.

During his address, Sivaji praised the event’s anchor for wearing a saree and went on to urge female actors to avoid “revealing outfits,” suggesting that modest clothing earns greater respect. He claimed that while people may not openly object, they often feel uncomfortable seeing women in outfits he deemed inappropriate.

Chinmayi responded sharply on social media, sharing a clip of Sivaji’s speech and condemning both his language and mindset. She accused the actor of using derogatory slurs while offering unsolicited advice in what she described as a professional workspace. Calling his attitude entitled and sexist, Chinmayi pointed out the hypocrisy in policing women’s clothing while men face no such scrutiny.

In her post, Chinmayi remarked that if cultural morality were truly being enforced, the same standards should apply to men as well. She further stated that it was “unbelievable” how casually women are judged and spoken about in public forums within the industry.

Sivaji, anticipating criticism, defended his stance by saying that freedom should come with limits and that glamour must not cross a line. He cited legendary actresses such as Savitri and Soundarya as examples of grace through traditional attire and claimed that respect is tied to conduct and appearance.

The incident has reignited discussions within the Telugu film industry about moral policing, freedom of expression, and the persistent double standards faced by women. While some voices online supported Sivaji’s views on tradition, many others backed Chinmayi, stressing that clothing choices are personal and not open to public regulation.