India, Nov. 26 -- T he launch of actor Prabhas's new song from his upcoming film The Raja Saab in Hyderabad on Sunday was meant to be a celebration for his fans. However, a remark from director Maruthi quickly turned the event into a heated online debate. With Prabhas skipping the event, the focus shifted to Maruthi as he discussed the Prabhas's performance. Maruthi said he would avoid cliched lines such as "you'll raise your collar after watching this," calling such gestures "too small" for Prabhas's stature. The comment was instantly linked by the audience to Jr NTR's signature collar gesture, a staple of the actor's public appearances. Clips of the remark spread rapidly across fan pages, with many interpreting it as an indirect slight. This prompted a swift backlash from Jr NTR's supporters, who branded the comment unnecessary and disrespectful. Maruthi responded the same day on X, writing: "Never my intention to hurt anyone," and later issued a personal apology: "I sincerely apologise to every fan. Sometimes in the flow of words things come out differently. I regret that it was received in the wrong way or as a comparison." He added that he holds "immense respect for NTR" and values the passion of his fan community. htc...