Director Deepu Karunakaran, known for movies such as Teja Bhai and Family’ and the critically acclaimed Winter, lashed out at a prominent actress for refusing to be part of his latest movie's promotion. The director’s response came in an interview given to an online channel.

DEEPU KARUNAKARAN:

“She was one of the most cooperative actors with us during the shooting. Even when we feared the chances of dropping the project, the same actress stood with us and assured us of all support. So, it is surprising nevertheless that she decided not to be part of the promotion of the movie. When asked to put a post on her Instagram page, she refused. Later, when requested to attend a promotion event, she was unwilling and languidly suggested that she would attend during some random days but not on the specified date.

Four songs have been released in the film. The audio rights of the film were given to a company for 10 lakh rupees. The company demanded proper promotion on Instagram. There is a Facebook page handled by fans of this young actress. Finally, the audio promotion had to be released through that page.

We conducted many discussions with the actress’s mother and manager. At one stage, I even had to grovel at her feet. Her mother’s response was shocking. She said, ‘I can’t force her after a limit, it is my child's decision.’

We even talked with her manager but it was of no use. Later, the lead actor of the movie Indrajith called and chided her for the heedless act. The actress then showed signs of coming to a pact.

If I had approached the association, the problem would have been solved within a day. However, I didn't want to create a fuss during the promotion stage.”