Chiranjeevi’s ‘Wish for Grandson’ remark sparks controversy; opposition calls it ‘Sexist’

Veteran Telugu actor Chiranjeevi has drawn criticism for his recent remark about hoping for a grandson to carry forward his family legacy. The statement, made during a film event in Hyderabad, has sparked backlash from opposition leaders, who have called it “sexist” and “regrettable.”

During the event, Chiranjeevi was shown a photograph of himself with his granddaughters. In a lighthearted remark, he quipped that he felt like a “ladies’ hostel warden” surrounded by girls at home. He went on to say, “I hope Charan (his actor-son Ram Charan) has a boy this time to carry forward our legacy. He adores his daughter, but I worry he might have another girl again. Lovely kids!”

His comments did not sit well with many, including Congress MP Jebi Mather, who called them “sad and unfortunate.”

“It is disappointing to hear such a statement suggesting that only a boy can carry forward a legacy. Both boys and girls are equally valuable, and we should encourage them to grow into responsible individuals who contribute to society,” Mather said.

CPI-M leader Brinda Karat also criticized the remarks, calling them “crass” and a reflection of deep-rooted son preference in Indian society.

“It is unfortunate when well-known personalities make such sexist comments. Son preference has already skewed India’s sex ratio, and such statements reinforce the pressures women face to bear male children,” Karat told ANI.

She further added that even if Chiranjeevi intended his remark in a lighthearted manner, it carries serious implications.

“This culture of preferring sons over daughters leads to social evils like sex determination tests and female foeticide,” Karat warned, urging the actor to reconsider his words.

Ram Charan and his wife Upasana Konidela welcomed their first child, a baby girl, last year.

The controversy has reignited discussions on gender bias and the role of public figures in shaping societal attitudes toward equality.