ThePrint ThePrintAM: What's the controversy over Andhra Dy CM Pawan Kalyan's ‘evil eye’ remark?
Dec 4, 2025
A provocative statement from Andhra's Deputy CM about coconut tree deformities in Konaseema has ignited controversy. The remark, linking the region's greenery to the state's bifurcation, stirred tensions between Andhra and Telangana ahead of elections. Telangana leaders are calling for Kalyan to retract his comment, with some threatening to ban his films unless he apologizes. Critics are urging a scientific approach to tree diseases instead of attributing them to superstition. The political fallout highlights the charged atmosphere as loyalties and sentiments are tested.
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Superstition Framed As Cause Of Crop Damage
- Pawan Kalyan linked coconut tree deformities in Konaseema to 'dhusti' or the evil eye, framing a local agricultural issue as superstition.
- His remark reignited interstate rivalry and regional sentiments between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana eleven years after the split.
Political Backlash Escalated Quickly
- Telangana politicians saw the comment as an insult and demanded retraction, showing how language by leaders escalates political tensions.
- Responses ranged from calls for apology to threats of banning Kalyan's films in Telangana ahead of local polls.
Threats To Boycott Kalyan's Films
- Congress MLC Balmur Venkat warned Kalyan to apologise or face being 'chased out' of Hyderabad and Telangana youth stopping his films.
- BRS and Congress leaders publicly called his comments immature and urged restraint from a deputy chief minister.