Never Asked Rachita To Expose Navel Or Do Skin Shows: Nagashekhar Blasts Her For Boycotting Film Promotions

Sandalwood is simmering with controversy as senior director Nagashekhar has taken a direct shot at actress Rachita Ram for allegedly boycotting the promotions of their recent film Sanju Weds Geetha 2. What's adding spice to the drama? The director claims, "I didn't even ask her to expose her navel," yet she has stayed away from promotions.

In an interview, Nagashekhar expressed deep disappointment over what he called Rachita's unprofessional behaviour. "You've seen how she's been portrayed in other films. In my movie, I presented her decently, as a housewife. I didn't ask her to show even a bit of her navel or do skin shows," he said.

Presented Rachita Ram Well Without Navel Or Skin Shows: Nagashekhar

The director accused the actress of abandoning the film's promotional activities, despite having been portrayed in a dignified role opposite actor Srinagar Kitty. "From June 6th onwards, they claim she attended events. Let them send me a single photo of her from any program - I will apologise to the Chamber and the public. But what has she done? She hasn't shown up, she hasn't promoted the film. People are asking why the heroine is missing. Was there a fight? There was no communication at all," he added.

Nagashekhar said he had even told Rachita that superstar Shivarajkumar would be part of the promotions and that major TV channels were lined up for interviews. But she reportedly remained unresponsive. "Let us know what went wrong. If we made a mistake, we'll accept it. But if it's her fault, what kind of strict action will the Chamber take? No producer or director should go through this again," he appealed.

When Kriti Kharbhanda Left Shoot Midway

Referring to his extensive experience in the industry, Nagashekhar shared an anecdote from Masti Gudi as he recalled how actress Kriti Kharbanda once suddenly decided to leave for Mumbai, citing a friend's health emergency, just as he had returned from a hot outdoor shoot. "I was having coffee. I asked Kriti where she was going. She said her friend was unwell. I got scared. I dropped the coffee and ran. These things happen, but we manage. I've never told anyone about this till now," he said.

He emphasised that while production challenges are common, mutual respect and responsibility are essential. "After a film wraps up, problems are bound to arise. But as directors, we handle them silently. This time, it's gone too far," he said.

Nagashekhar's outburst and the filing of a formal complaint have put the spotlight back on actress Rachita Ram, who is currently seen in a string of films and TV shows. The Sandalwood industry now waits to see how the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce responds to this very public fallout.