Bollywood actress Taapsee Pannu has found herself at the center of controversy after an incident at the song launch of her upcoming movie “Khel Khel Mein.” The star-studded event, which took place in Mumbai, featured a peppy Punjabi dance track titled “Hauli Hauli.” The song includes performances by celebrated actors such as Akshay Kumar, Ammy Virk, Vaani Kapoor, Aditya Seal, Pragya Jaiswal, and Fardeen Khan.
The controversy erupted when Taapsee Pannu, who was present alongside other cast members, encountered Ananya Dwivedi, a music tech coach and influencer, on the stage. In a moment captured on video, Taapsee is seen refusing to take a selfie with Ananya. The video quickly went viral, drawing immediate and sharp reactions.
Ananya Dwivedi, visibly upset, took to social media to voice her displeasure. She commented on the video, stating, “That’s me. And I don’t understand why would someone deny a selfie when you’re already surrounded by cameras, and the only reason influencers like me were called is to promote HER song! She really needs better PR training.” The post gained traction, garnering significant attention and sparking an online debate regarding celebrities’ interactions with influencers and their public relations skills.
The event, initially intended to be a high-spirited promotional affair, became overshadowed by the incident. “Hauli Hauli” showcases a nostalgic dance sequence with Fardeen Khan and Akshay Kumar recreating their iconic ‘Hey Babyy’ steps. The track, crooned by popular artists Guru Randhawa, Yo Yo Honey Singh, and Neha Kakkar, is designed to be a party anthem, complete with traditional outfits and energetic choreography.
“Khel Khel Mein,” the movie behind the song, is a comedy-drama slated for release on August 15, 2024. Originally scheduled for a September release, the film aims to push the boundaries of the comedy-drama genre. It is produced by an ensemble of notable producers, including Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, Vipul D Shah, Ashwin Varde, Rajesh Bahl, Shashikant Sinha, and Ajay Rai. In a statement, the producers expressed their vision for the film, describing it as a “rollercoaster ride of emotions that transcends the ordinary.”
Following this incident, Taapsee Pannu’s upcoming project, “Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba,” is also catching public attention. The film, in which she stars alongside Vikrant Massey, delves into the lives of Rani (Pannu) and Rishu (Massey) as they try to navigate their complicated past and new challenges that arise.
. The addition of new characters like Abhimanyu, played by Sunny Kaushal, and Officer Mritunjay, a.k.a. Montu Chacha, portrayed by Jimmy Shergill, adds further intrigue and tension to the narrative.
Officer Mritunjay is a new ace officer with a personal vendetta, seeking to unravel the tangled web Rani and Rishu have spun. The pair finds themselves reverting to their old, manipulative ways to maintain their relationship, all the while facing dangers and deceptions from all sides. “Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba” is set to premiere on Netflix on August 9, promising an emotional and thrilling storyline that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
The controversy surrounding Taapsee Pannu’s refusal to take a selfie with Ananya Dwivedi has ignited a broader conversation about celebrity behavior and public expectations, particularly in an era where social media presence is pivotal for promotional activities. Celebrities are often scrutinized for their interactions with fans and influencers, and this incident highlights how such interactions can have far-reaching implications.
The backlash against Taapsee has led to varied reactions from the public and her peers in the industry. Some defend her stance, suggesting that celebrities also need personal boundaries, while others criticize her for lacking the charm and PR acumen expected of high-profile stars. This incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable and often challenging nature of public relations in the entertainment world.
As for “Khel Khel Mein,” despite the controversy, the film continues to build anticipation among fans. The audience remains eager to see how the characters and stories unfold in both the song and the movie itself. The combination of comedy, drama, and high-energy dance numbers promises an entertaining experience for moviegoers.
In conclusion, while the refusal of a selfie may seem a minor incident, it underscores the complex dynamic between celebrities and influencers in today’s digital age. Whether this controversy will impact the box office performance or the public perception of Taapsee Pannu remains to be seen. For now, all eyes are on the releases of “Khel Khel Mein” and “Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba,” as the audience awaits an entertaining cinematic experience.
(With inputs from ANI)
