Amazon Prime Video’s ‘Vadhandhi 2’ has landed in controversy after a real-life Jallikattu champion objected to using his name for a fictional character in the series. The issue was reportedly resolved after actor Sasikumar personally spoke to Modakathan Mani, clarifying that the mystery drama is entirely fictional and that the character was never intended to disrespect the sport, its players, or the celebrated Jallikattu champion.
What sparked the ‘Vadhandhi 2’ controversy
A name used for a character in the newly released web series ‘Vadhandhi 2’ has landed the show in an unexpected controversy. According to a Filmibeat report, real-life Jallikattu player Modakathan Mani was taken aback to find his name being used for a character in the series. Mani reportedly reached out to actor Sasikumar through filmmaker Pandiarajan to express his disappointment, questioning whether a Jallikattu champion celebrated across Tamil Nadu should be portrayed in an inappropriate light on screen.
Sasikumar clarifies the character was purely fictional
Recognising the seriousness of the concern, Sasikumar reportedly spoke directly with Mani to address the issue. The actor clarified that ‘Vadhandhi 2’ is a work of fiction and that the name was chosen simply because the makers felt it suited the character, with no intention of disrespecting Mani, the sport of Jallikattu, or those associated with it.“Vadhandhi 2 is a completely fictional story. We used the name Modakathan Mani for the series because we felt the name sounded good. We have not portrayed anyone in a wrong manner,” Sasikumar reportedly said.The actor also noted that he had earlier played a Jallikattu participant in one of his films and stated he would never knowingly allow the sport or its players to be depicted disrespectfully. He added that the character was crafted in a way that anyone named Mani could feel proud of. Following the direct conversation, the misunderstanding was resolved, with Mani reportedly accepting the explanation and thanking Sasikumar for addressing his concern personally.
About ‘Vadhandhi 2’: Cast and where to watch?
‘Vadhandhi 2’ is the second season of the mystery-drama franchise created by director Andrew Louis. While the first season starred SJ Suryah in the lead role, the new season features Sasikumar in a key part. The cast also includes Anagha, Aparna Das, Vivek Prasanna, Revathi Sharma, Arjun Nandakumar, and Yashwanth. The series is currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video and follows a fictional narrative centred on mystery, investigation, and human emotion.