"Intention Is Not To Offend": Actress Shanthi Priya Defends The Narrative Of 'Bad Girl' (Image-X/shanthipriya333)
Bad Girl, the new directorial of Varsha Bharath, has been stirring the internet ever since its trailer release on January 26. Presented by veteran directors Vetrimaaran and Anurag Kashyap, the film was criticised by certain groups for its portrayal of the Brahmin community.
Many attacked director Pa Ranjith, Vetrimaaran, and Kashyap for the film’s narrative. The two-minute-long teaser of the film narrates a coming-of-age drama about a woman navigating her school days and newfound sexual desires.
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The film’s portrayal of the protagonist from a Brahmin background fuelled controversy, with many expressing their varied opinions. Amid this, actress Shanthi Priya, who plays a pivotal role in Bad Girl, took to her social media account to pen a long note slamming those opposing the movie.
Explaining the intention of the film, she wrote, “Portraying the life of a Brahmin girl (or anyone from a particular community) is not about “bashing” but about storytelling—presenting raw, authentic characters that represent reality.”
The actress continued, “Art is a medium of expression, and cinema often reflects the complexities of society, relationships, and identities. Films like these aim to break stereotypes and shed light on unexplored narratives, often challenging societal norms across all communities, not just one.”
Appreciating the bold take of the directors and extending her support towards Bad Girl, she said, “Vetrimaaran and Anurag Kashyap are known for their bold and unflinching take on social themes, tackling inequalities and uncomfortable truths.”
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Shanthi Priya also stated, “Their intention is not to offend but to spark conversation and encourage audiences to reflect on the intricacies of life and tradition.”
Her statement comes after director and activist Mohan G Kshatriyan said, “Portraying a brahmin girl personal life is always a bold and refreshing film for this clan. What more can be expected from vetrimaran, Anurag kasyap & Co.. Bashing Brahmin father and mother is old and not trendy.. Try with your own caste girls and showcase it to your own family first.”
Portraying a brahmin girl personal life is always a bold and refreshing film for this clan. What more can be expected from vetrimaran, Anurag kasyap & Co.. Bashing Brahmin father and mother is old and not trendy.. Try with your own caste girls and showcase it to your own family… https://t.co/XP8mtnaFws
— Mohan G Kshatriyan (@mohandreamer) January 27, 2025
The film stars Anjali Sivaraman, Shanthi Priya, Saranya Ravichandran, Hridhu Haroon, TeeJay Arunasalam, and Sashank Bommireddipalli. Bad Girl is gearing up for a world premiere at the 54th International Film Festival of Rotterdam. The film will release in India later this year.
Watch the teaser here:
