People Media Factory issued an official statement on December 11, 2025, apologizing for an offhand remark made by actor Bandi Saroj Kumar during the Mowgli 2025 pre-release event. The actor had jokingly claimed that his villainous performance shocked the Censor Board into silence, which sparked a minor controversy in the Telugu film industry. In their statement, People Media Factory emphasized their respect for the censoring process and announced the immediate removal of the remark from all published content.
The statement clarified that the comment was unintentional and did not reflect the production team’s stance. People Media Factory highlighted the professionalism and expertise of the Censor Board and its officers, expressing gratitude for their guidance and continued support. The swift apology demonstrates the importance of maintaining cordial relationships with regulatory authorities in an industry where certification can significantly impact release schedules and promotional campaigns.
Mowgli 2025, starring Roshan Kanakala, Sakkshi Mhadolkar, and featuring Viva Harsha in a pivotal role, received an ‘A’ certification from the board. The film is slated for release on December 19, 2025, directly competing with Nandamuri Balakrishna’s Akhanda 2, making timely clearance and censorship compliance crucial for marketing and box office strategies.
Industry analysts note that Telugu cinema, like other regional industries, operates under strict scrutiny from boards such as the CBFC. Any public comment regarding the censor process can trigger controversy, potentially affecting public perception and promotional activities. The rapid apology by People Media Factory reflects a growing trend in the industry to proactively manage censor relations to avoid disruptions and ensure smooth theatrical releases.
Fans of the film continue to anticipate Mowgli 2025, with excitement surrounding its action-packed sequences and villainous performances. While the controversy has since been quelled, the incident underscores the delicate balance filmmakers must maintain between creative expression, marketing hype, and compliance with regulatory guidelines, highlighting the evolving dynamics of Telugu cinema in 2025.