Pawan Kalyan the Deputy CM versus Pawan Kalyan the uncle: In comments on Allu Arjun, a balancing act

Kalyan said Arjun’s team should have immediately reached out and visited the bereaved family, and not doing so led to anger.

But his criticism of the incident came with a rider – that Arjun alone is not to blame. “He alone cannot be blamed. Film stars do go to theatres to watch the reaction of their fans. It helps them improve their acting skills,” Kalyan, one of Tollywood’s tallest stars, said.

“Revanth Reddy has sent a message that everyone is equal before the law. I think he would have done the same if I was involved,” he said.

Kalyan’s comments on upholding the rule of law are in line with his oft-repeated stand at public meetings and events that the law should apply equally to everyone. He has repeatedly urged his fanbase not to bully or abuse anyone, especially on social media.

“Prior to the release of any of his big releases, he sends out a message to his fans not to break the law, indulge in wild celebrations or do anything that would inconvenience anyone. He tells fans not to be unruly or indulge in vandalism. If he anticipates any problem somewhere, he also holds a media conference to broadcast his appeal,” said L Venu Gopal, who has done PR work for several of Kalyan’s films.

In the past, Kalyan had even warned Andhra Pradesh Home Minister V Anitha that he would have to take over if she is unable to control the law and order situation in the state.

Kalyan’s comments come against the backdrop of the Telangana government being involved in a somewhat bitter exchange with Arjun, who it said should have heeded police warnings at Sandhya Theatre, where the stampede took place.

After Reddy raised the heat on Arjun, and the actor said he was being targeted, the CM eventually called a meeting of industry stalwarts to make it clear that the safety of citizens is his priority.