Ravi Teja-starrer Irumudi has landed in controversy after the Andhra Pradesh Teachers’ Federation (APTF) objected to the film’s portrayal of a government school. Directed by Shiva Nirvana, the revenge action thriller revolves around a major scandal at a government girls’ school in a village. Swasika Vijay plays a sinister character linked to the institution, while the male lead’s daughter is also connected to the school.

Damaging portrayal alleged

Three days after the film’s theatrical release, the federation raised objections to what it described as the alleged misrepresentation of a government school in the film. APTF State President Chennupati Manjula and General Secretary Basavalinga Rao reportedly stated that the portrayal could damage the reputation of government schools and those working within the education system.

The federation specifically objected to references to the Zilla Parishad High School in Sileru, Alluri Sitharama Raju district. According to the association, the depiction is demeaning and could distort public perception of government-run educational institutions.

The teachers’ body has called on the filmmakers to voluntarily withdraw the contentious portions. It also argued that such portrayals could undermine public trust in government education.

Under India’s film-certification framework, which is administered by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), filmmakers generally have creative latitude when fictionalising institutions and characters, particularly when fictional or generic names are used. However, real-world references can still invite objections from organisations or individuals who believe they have been portrayed unfairly.

Pushback against the portrayal of professions and institutions in films is not new. In 2019, the Tamil Nadu Teachers Association objected to Jyotika-starrer Raatchasi, which explored the functioning of a government school. Similarly, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) issued legal notices and staged protests against the 2015 Bollywood film Gabbar Is Back over its depiction of the medical profession.

Irumudi remains a box-office sensation

The controversy comes even as Irumudi continues its strong run at the Telugu box office. The revenge action thriller is being touted as one of Ravi Teja’s biggest commercial successes. The film stars the actor as an alcoholic father for whom his daughter is the centre of his world, with Sai Kumar and others in important roles.

Two songs featuring festivities associated with Lord Ayyappa Swamy have emerged as chartbusters, adding to the film’s popularity. GV Prakash Kumar has composed the music for the Shiva Nirvana directorial.

Also Read: Ravi Teja’s Irumudi Storms Box Office With Record-breaking Opening Weekend

Emraan Hashmi’s Awarapan 2 has not only crossed the lifetime box-office record of Awarapan, but has also emerged as the actor’s biggest solo hit. With the film continuing its strong run at the box office, the team recently reunited for a success bash.

Kiara Advani, who plays a pivotal role alongside Yash in Toxic, recalled the moment she shared the news of her pregnancy with the film’s lead actor and director Geetu Mohandas. The duo were among the first people outside her family to learn about her pregnancy during the making of the multilingual action drama.

‘They responded with teary-eyed smiles’

Speaking at an event in Chennai on Monday, the Bollywood actress revealed that instead of worrying about the filming schedule or logistical challenges, Yash and Geetu responded with warmth and emotional support. She said they congratulated her with teary-eyed smiles and made it clear that her well-being came first.
“In that moment, you didn’t think about how will we finish the film, the logistics, none of that,” Kiara shared.

The actress said she remains grateful for the way both Yash and Geetu made her feel comfortable throughout the demanding production. “I was so touched to just see someone who was so happy for me. I will never forget that you asked me to be comfortable on set the way I wanted. As you told me, you have made the best film,” the Shershaah and Kabir Singh actress added.

Both Yash and Geetu reportedly took extra care of Kiara during the shoot, with Yash even describing how they behaved like her protective bodyguards to ensure that she was comfortable and safe while filming.

‘Greatest gift of our lives’

Kiara and her husband, actor Sidharth Malhotra, announced their pregnancy in February 2025. “The greatest gift of our lives. Coming soon,” they wrote in their announcement. At the time, major portions of Toxic were yet to be filmed.

Following the birth of their daughter, the couple shared another emotional announcement, writing, “Our hearts are full, and our world forever changed. We are blessed with a baby girl.”

Kiara plays Nadia in Toxic. Yash has previously praised her performance, expressing confidence that audiences will be impressed by her portrayal and saying, “India will fall in love with her again.”

Also Read: Kiara Advani Gives a Sneak Peek Into The World of Nadia With BTS From Toxic