Santhanam Faces Backlash Over Devotional Song in Devil’s Double: Next Level

Tamil actor Santhanam has found himself at the center of a controversy just days ahead of the release of his upcoming film Devil’s Double: Next Level. A song from the film that begins with the sacred chant “Srinivasa Govinda… Sri Venkatesa Govinda” has sparked backlash from devotees and drawn legal scrutiny.

The film, a sequel to Santhanam’s popular horror-comedy Dhilluku Dhuddu, is scheduled for release on May 16. However, trouble began when a track featuring a commonly chanted devotional verse—typically heard at the Tirumala temple—was repurposed in a commercial song praising the hero. While the lyrics start off with the religious chant, the rest of the song transitions into a standard cinematic style, upsetting many who believe the usage is disrespectful.

Complaints have been filed in both Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. In Tirupati, Janasena leader Kiran Royal even met with former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Palaniswami, urging that the song be removed before the film’s release.

Addressing the controversy, Santhanam defended the film, stating that all legal and censor board procedures had been properly followed. He emphasized that he is a devotee of Lord Venkateswara and would never intentionally offend religious sentiments. He also made it clear that the song would not be removed due to external pressure.

With the film’s release around the corner, it remains to be seen whether the controversy will escalate or fade away.