‘I’m not such a heartless person as to call people dogs’: Raghava Lawrence responds to controversy

Actor-director Raghava Lawrence has responded to the controversy surrounding comments he made during a recent media interaction. The actor took to social media to explain his remarks after sections of social media accused him of comparing people to dogs.

‘Benz’ actor denies viral claims

In a lengthy post shared on X, Raghava Lawrence strongly rejected allegations that he had referred to people as dogs. He stressed that he has always held the public and his fans in the highest regard.He wrote, “Hi everyone, I would like to clarify a misunderstanding regarding my recent press meeting. I have always said that my fans and the people are equal to my mother. Some are spreading false news that I referred to people as dogs, which is completely untrue and misleading.”He added, “All I meant was that when we move into a new house, it takes time to understand the surroundings and even the dogs in the area, their habits, and what they like to eat. I’m not such a heartless person as to call people dogs, whom I respect deeply and regard as equal to my mother. I was only talking about understanding a new environment takes time to get used to and did not refer to people anywhere. I request everyone to watch the full video and understand what I actually meant. Thank you for your understanding and support #serviceisgod.”

Fans come out in support

Following the clarification, many fans defendedRaghava Lawrence and argued that his original remarks had been taken out of context.One supporter commented, “U should have referred the media to dogs…then they would shut their mouth sir…..they know ur a strong candidate hence they want to defame u……all sold out media.”Another fan wrote, “Sir, I saw your recent interview. It was not misunderstanding by people actually I was purposefully misled your interview by Press and Media. There is nothing wrong in your speech, even Dogs can understand your speech clearly and your example portrayed for better understanding..”The controversy emerged during Raghava Lawrence’s interaction with journalists after meeting his fans. During the conversation, he spoke about the growing calls for him to enter active politics.Addressing the topic, Raghava Lawrence said, as quoted by News 18, “I was thinking whether I should enter politics or not. After my video, many people asked me to come into politics.”During the same media interaction, Raghava Lawrence spoke about the challenges faced by newly elected governments. Using a household comparison, he said, “When you move into a new house, only then do you realize the problems inside.”Another statement later became the centre of controversy. Lawrence remarked, “Even street dogs bark at a newcomer on the road. Some can be quietened with biscuits, while some prefer biryani.”While supporters viewed the comment as a metaphor for the resistance faced by newcomers, critics felt the analogy was inappropriate and open to multiple interpretations.Coming to the work front, Raghava Lawrence will be next seen in ‘Benz’.