New Delhi. In the world of cinema, Prakash Raj is known for his strong acting as well as his outspoken opinions on social and political issues. He has many times spoken openly on such topics on which other actors of the entertainment world avoid commenting publicly. This frankness of his had an impact on his professional life as well. Now his wife and choreographer Pony Verma has shared many things related to Prakash Raj's struggle and his decisions in an interview. According to Pony, Prakash Raj had to pay the price for speaking his mind. He faced difficulties in getting work and many advertisements and films also went out of his hands. Despite this, he did not accept to step back from his views.
In an interview given to YouTube channel Prema, Pony Verma told that initially she was very worried about the political and social comments of Prakash Raj. She was afraid that her husband might face some kind of trouble because of her constant speaking out. But in 2017, the murder of journalist and social activist Gauri Lankesh shook Prakash Raj to the core. According to Pony, Gauri Lankesh was a very close friend of Prakash Raj and their friendship was more than 35 years old. Prakash Raj was completely broken after receiving the news of his murder. However, this incident inspired him to raise his voice more strongly instead of remaining silent.
Pony Verma told that after the murder of Gauri, Prakash Raj had a question in his mind that how long can he remain afraid. Pony herself was worried about his safety. He felt that continuously speaking on political issues could pose a threat to him. But Prakash Raj believed that it was important to raise voice against wrong. According to Pony, Gauri Lankesh also stood firmly on her views and her murder made Prakash Raj realize that one cannot stop speaking out due to fear.
Pony also told that Prakash Raj's outspokenness had an impact on his film career. According to him, there were some people in the industry who did not like Prakash Raj's political opinions. He claimed that his advertisements were stopped and some films were also taken away from him. Pony said that many artists in the entertainment world avoid speaking on controversial issues to protect their work and earnings. But Prakash Raj gave priority to the voice of his conscience. According to him, Prakash Raj believes that when he feels something is wrong then it is not right to remain silent on it.
The murder of Gauri Lankesh had sparked a debate across the country regarding freedom of expression and safety of journalists. He was shot dead outside his house in Bengaluru in 2017. She was known for her fearless journalism and outspoken views on social issues. Prakash Raj was also deeply affected by his death.
It is clear from Pony Verma's words that for Prakash Raj, speaking on social issues is not just a part of his public image but a decision related to his personal beliefs. Despite professional losses and criticism, he continued to express his opinions. The murder of Gauri Lankesh became a turning point in his journey which gave him the courage to express his views more strongly.