Vishnu slams MAA for U-turn

In a press statement, actor and producer Vishnu Manchu expressed great displeasure over the way Movie Artist Association had handled a non-member issue, following a growing outrage that was smeared all over.

According to a letter that he sent out to the association, Vishnu said the actors guild was formed to promote the welfare of the members of Telugu film industry and also to extend services besides supporting the government in times of severe disasters and natural calamities. 

It is this guiding principle that led many artists to join the association. “The recent episode involving a non-member with MAA puzzles me’, said the actor. He quoted the sudden press conference that the association held, first urging the 900-odd members to boycott the agitated artist by not acting with her. While it was a  clarion call, he said the members included his father, brother, sister and himself are actor/ producers and it was their prerogative with whom to act or not. 

Following the boycott, MAA called for yet another press conference and took a U-turn to revoke the ban which surprised many including us. Such decision has put the respectful association in a bad light with the media and millions watching across the world. “Because of your decision, we have been embarrassed across the world,” actor Vishnu Manchu stated on the decision made by the association on the recent outburst by an artist who was not a member yet.

With allegations and exploitations of women and men in the name of our film industry making unpleasant news now, the film chamber must set up a grievance cell since MAA alone cannot handle this. The actor added, “Restraint is needed in matters like this, not knee-jerk reactions.” He is hoping that the association will respond to his note of grievance and displeasure immediately.