Director Sandeep Reddy Vanga, who has made a name for himself with his fearless storytelling, has again landed in controversy. His movie, Animal, was a huge box-office hit, attracting viewers with its raw emotion and high-octane action.
Also Read – Sikandar’s Story Twist: What’s Murugadoss Cooking?
But with its box-office success came also scathing criticism for its graphic violence and so-called misogynistic content.
While such a backlash is not unusual in Bollywood, what was notable was the disproportionate division of praise and criticism—lead actor Ranbir Kapoor was universally praised for his performance, while Vanga took the hit for the film’s poor reception.
Also Read – South’s Star Villain in Sikandar: Show Stealer?
Vanga attributes this difference to the inherent biases in the industry. He cited the fact that Kapoor was still admired by most of those who condemned Animal. “Film people who criticized Animal worse all said, ‘But Ranbir toh todd diya,'” he said.
He claimed that Kapoor, being a veteran actor, is above criticism because individuals wish to collaborate with him. “It’s simple to speak about me because I am fresh to this town,” he further said.
Also Read – Gunfire on Director: Even My Guards Could Kill Me
He also remembered when an actor from his last movie, Kabir Singh, was not given work by a leading production house because of their identification with him.
His statement proves Bollywood’s long-standing hypocrisy where big stars are shielded while new artists receive tougher scrutiny.
In spite of the criticism, Animal has proved Vanga’s storytelling works as it opened a bigger discussion regarding fairness in the industry.
Despite the backlash, Sandeep Vanga remains unfazed and continues to stand by his vision. He believes that storytelling should not be compromised due to industry politics and selective criticism.
Vanga also pointed out that the same level of scrutiny was absent when similar themes appeared in films directed by Bollywood’s established filmmakers.
“Why does the industry react differently when the same elements exist in their films?” he questioned.
Fans of Sandeep Vanga have rallied behind him, calling out the double standards in Bollywood. Many argue that the success of Sandeep Vanga Bollywood films like Kabir Singh and Animal proves that audiences appreciate raw and intense storytelling.
While Vanga remains a polarizing figure, his impact on Bollywood cannot be ignored. His approach to filmmaking challenges conventional norms, and despite the industry’s resistance, he continues to push boundaries.
His next project is eagerly awaited, as fans and critics alike are curious to see how he evolves as a filmmaker amid the ongoing debate.
