Daijiworld Media Network - Hyderabad

Hyderabad, Oct 9: Actor Vijay Deverakonda has responded to online criticism ahead of the release of his upcoming film ‘Ranabaali’, saying he has no intention of changing himself to please his critics.

Speaking at the film’s trailer launch in Hyderabad on Thursday, Vijay questioned why he should abandon his dreams and hard work simply because some people disapprove of his personality and self-confidence.

“Should I stop because someone thinks my dreams and hard work are unnecessary? Should I start acting because someone thinks my honesty comes off as arrogance? Should I step back because someone thinks my self-confidence comes across as pride?” he asked.

The actor said he would not change himself to satisfy his critics and urged people to focus on improving themselves and their lives rather than pulling others down.

Vijay also addressed online comparisons between ‘Ranabaali’ and Rajinikanth-starrer ‘Jailer 2’, which are scheduled to release a day apart. He claimed that much of the negative commentary on social media was manufactured and alleged that some people were paid to promote one film over another.

“People can have opinions, but if you see the same opinion everywhere, it’s manufactured,” he said, adding that social media should be used to promote positive initiatives rather than target others.

Directed by Rahul Sankrityan, ‘Ranabaali’ stars Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna. The film marks another collaboration between Vijay and the director after their 2018 film ‘Taxiwaala’.

‘Jailer 2’, starring Rajinikanth and directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, is the sequel to the 2023 hit ‘Jailer’. According to the announcement, ‘Jailer 2’ is scheduled for release on October 15, while ‘Ranabaali’ will arrive in theatres on October 16. Both films are expected to release in South Indian languages and Hindi.