Rapper Arivu has issued a public statement addressing the backlash over his collaboration with fellow rapper Vedan, who is facing multiple sexual abuse allegations. The controversy erupted after Arivu and filmmaker Mari Selvaraj posed for a photograph with Vedan, coinciding with the release of Rekka Rekka, a track from Selvaraj’s upcoming film Bison Kaalamaadan.
The collaboration drew sharp criticism on social media, with many questioning the decision to platform Vedan despite the serious accusations against him. Several users voiced disappointment in both Arivu and Selvaraj, urging greater accountability in the industry.
Responding to the criticism, Arivu clarified that the photo was shared “in a personal/artistic moment.” He added, “I respect women’s voices and believe the truth must come out through due process.”
Vedan, born Hirandas Murali, has been accused of sexual assault by multiple women. Allegations first surfaced during the #MeToo movement. He was arrested earlier this year for narcotics possession, after which a doctor accused him of rape between 2021 and 2023 under the pretext of marriage. In August, two PhD scholars also reported incidents of alleged assault in 2020 and 2021 to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. While he has secured anticipatory bail, the court noted the seriousness of the charges.
The controversy continues as Bison Kaalamaadan, starring Dhruv Vikram, Anupama Parameshwaran, and Pasupathy, gears up for release on October 17. Produced by Pa Ranjith along with Sameer Nair, Aditi Anand, and Deepak Segal, the film is a kabaddi-centered sports drama.
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