Tollywood Stars Misconception over Smoking

Tollywood Stars Misconception over Smoking. Smoking has long been synonymous with machoism in the male-dominated cinema industry. Whether it's Balakrishna in Veera Simha Reddy or Chiranjeevi in Waltair Veerayya, the cigarette has been wielded as a symbol of confidence and strength. Film posters often portray stars like Mahesh Babu, Prabhas, and Ravi Teja with cigarettes to enhance their suave image. However, the on-screen glamorization of smoking juxtaposed with the mandatory statutory warning — "Smoking and drinking are injurious to health" — raises questions about the efficacy and purpose of such cautions.

Mutyala Ramadasu, Vice-President of the Film Chamber, expresses concern that the statutory warning has become a mere formality, and he places the onus on heroes and filmmakers to exercise more responsibility. "Just like a cigarette packet is sold with a warning, stars and filmmakers include a caution and then feel free to portray smoking on screen. This begs the question of the purpose of such warnings," remarks Ramadasu.

The influence of stars on society is undeniable, with fans often emulating their on-screen actions. Whether it's Mahesh Babu's portrayal in Guntur Kaaram or Prabhas and Ravi Teja's charismatic cigarette flicks in Salaar and Tiger Nageswara Rao, respectively, these mannerisms are an extension of their macho personas, reinforcing male dominance. Director Gopichand Malieni, who directed Balakrishna in Veera Simha Reddy, defends such scenes, attributing them to the character's fearless attitude.

While some directors argue that smoking scenes are contextually linked to the character's design and backdrop, Director Vamsee emphasizes his commitment to social responsibility and denies the glorification of smoking as a symbol of masculinity in his films.

An additional challenge is the perceived loophole on the internet, where creative freedom is allowed without the constraints of censorship. Although smoking posters must be cleared by the Film Chamber's Publicity Cell, there is no censorship on the internet, allowing filmmakers to release content without approval.

Filmmaker Trinadha Rao Nakkina contends that fans and audiences are sensible enough not to be unduly influenced by on-screen actions. However, research suggests that fans and teenagers may indeed be influenced by their idols who portray smoking as part of their film roles.

In conclusion, the debate surrounding smoking in cinema highlights the delicate balance between creative freedom, societal influence, and the responsibility of filmmakers and stars to consider the potential impact of their on-screen choices.