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Vijay Deverakonda questions coordinated online criticism as the Ranabaali-Jailer 2 clash approaches. (Img: Pinterest)
Mumbai: Vijay Deverakonda has addressed the growing online trolling surrounding his upcoming period drama Ranabaali, questioning the motives behind the negativity directed at him and his films. His remarks come ahead of the movie’s theatrical release on October 16, 2026, as it prepares to compete at the box office with Rajinikanth’s highly anticipated Jailer 2.
The actor discussed the controversy during an interaction in Hyderabad ahead of Ranabaali’s trailer launch. His comments have brought renewed attention to the film, the online debate surrounding its release and the growing rivalry between major South Indian cinema releases.
Speaking about the criticism he faces online, Vijay questioned why he should compromise his ambitions, personality or confidence to satisfy people who disapprove of his journey. He maintained that his determination and honesty should not automatically be interpreted as arrogance or excessive pride.
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The actor made it clear that he had no intention of changing himself to appease online critics. Instead, he encouraged people to concentrate on personal development, family and positive achievements rather than spending their time undermining others.
His remarks reflect a broader debate about celebrity trolling, online negativity and the increasingly influential role of social media in shaping public perceptions of actors and their projects.
Vijay also addressed the online discussions comparing Ranabaali with Rajinikanth’s Jailer 2. He alleged that a significant portion of the negativity was manufactured rather than an expression of genuine audience opinion.
According to the actor, coordinated social media activity, including reels promoting one film over another, was contributing to the debate. He questioned why some online users appeared to be pushing the narrative that audiences should prefer Jailer 2 over Ranabaali, particularly when the latter is a Telugu-language production.
However, his comments represent his assessment of the online activity, and the extent of any organised campaign was not independently established in the interaction.
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Vijay also raised concerns about the future of paid online promotion in the age of artificial intelligence. He suggested that AI could eventually perform activities currently undertaken by people paid to influence social media discussions. He urged users to employ digital platforms to promote constructive ideas instead of targeting individuals or attempting to damage their reputations.
Directed by Rahul Sankrityan, Ranabaali stars Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna in a period drama scheduled to release in theatres on October 16, 2026.
Meanwhile, Rajinikanth’s Jailer 2, directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, is scheduled for October 15, a day before Ranabaali arrives in cinemas.
The back-to-back releases have created considerable interest around the box office prospects of both films. With two prominent stars attracting audiences across different language markets, the clash could intensify discussions about fan loyalty, advance interest and opening-day performance.
Vijay’s comments have added another dimension to the conversation, placing the spotlight not only on the films’ commercial prospects but also on the impact of online trolling and manufactured narratives in the entertainment industry.
