Chiranjeevi’s Comment on Wanting a Grandson Sparks Sexism Debate Online

South Indian superstar Chiranjeevi recently found himself at the center of a heated debate following his remarks at the Brahma Anandam pre-release event.
His comments about wanting a grandson from his son, Ram Charan, to continue the family legacy have sparked controversy online.
Many social media users have accused the veteran actor of making a “sexist” statement, suggesting an outdated preference for a male heir.
During the event, Chiranjeevi humorously compared his household to a “ladies’ hostel,” expressing his desire for a male grandchild.
He stated, “When I’m at home, it doesn’t feel like I’m surrounded by my granddaughters; it feels like I’m a ladies’ hostel warden, surrounded by ladies all around. I keep wishing and telling (Ram) Charan, at least this time, have a boy so that our legacy continues, but his daughter is the apple of his eye… I’m scared that he might again have a girl.”
Chiranjeevi’s son, Ram Charan, and his wife, Upasana Konidela, welcomed their daughter, Klin Kaara, in 2023. While the comment was made in a lighthearted manner, it has led to significant backlash from netizens.
Social Media Outrage Over Chiranjeevi’s Remarks
The actor’s statement did not sit well with many people online, with social media platforms being flooded with critical responses.
One user expressed disappointment, saying, “Very sad use of words by Chiranjeevi garu here. Ammayi ayithe bhayam enduku (If she’s a girl, why fear?)… they carry the legacy forward the same as boys do or even better. Ilanti matalu public ga anadam (Saying such things in public) sends a wrong message and takes us backwards.”
Another user called out Chiranjeevi’s recent public statements, writing, “Past few days, Chiranjeevi is going south of his image!! Including vulgarity on stage, commenting on girl children as not heirs, and talking about illegal affairs—he was not seen supporting his brother, fighter Pawan Kalyan Garu, when needed but claims Janasena as his own now.”
A different tweet criticized the actor for reinforcing patriarchal norms: “Dear Chiranjeevi garu, I have respect for you as an actor. However, I would appreciate some clarification on your recent statement.
It came across as misogynistic and seemed to imply that a legacy can only be carried forward by a male child. Did you truly mean this? Are you uncomfortable with the possibility of another girl child? Or was this just a ‘jest’ at Brahmanandam’s film event?”
Chiranjeevi’s Relationship With His Granddaughter
Despite the controversy, Chiranjeevi has always expressed immense love for his granddaughter, Klin Kaara.
In 2023, he proudly announced her birth on social media, writing, “And the baby’s name is ‘Klin Kaara Konidela.’
Taken from the Lalitha Sahasranamam, the name ‘Klin Kaara’ signifies a transformative purifying energy that brings about a spiritual awakening! All of us are sure the little one, the Little Princess, will imbibe these qualities into her personality as she grows up.”
However, his recent remarks have overshadowed this sentiment, with many questioning whether he truly values both male and female heirs equally.
The Debate on Gender and Legacy
Chiranjeevi’s comment has reignited discussions about the preference for male children in Indian families, especially within influential circles.
A viral tweet shared a video of his speech, criticizing his perspective: “Chiranjeevi is scared his son Ram Charan might have another daughter. In 2025, the obsession with a male heir continues. Disappointing, but not surprising. PS – I have a girl, and I have heard from hundreds of people to give birth to a boy next. It feels horrible when people want us to control things I can’t.”
This debate sheds light on the deep-rooted societal preference for male children and the expectations placed on women to bear sons.
Many argue that legacies are not limited to gender and that daughters are equally capable of carrying forward family traditions and names.
Chiranjeevi’s Career and Upcoming Projects
Amid this controversy, Chiranjeevi remains focused on his career. The megastar was last seen in Waltair Veerayya and Bhola Shankar in 2023, with Waltair Veerayya performing well at the box office, while Bhola Shankar failed to leave a mark.
He is now gearing up for his next big project, Vishwambhara, directed by Vassishta. Initially planned for a Sankranthi release, the film’s release date has been postponed.
Additionally, Chiranjeevi will collaborate with director Srikanth Odela on another film.
Ram Charan, too, has been busy with his film career. His latest release, Game Changer, premiered during Sankranthi but failed to make a significant impact.
He is now set to work with acclaimed directors Buchi Babu Sana and Sukumar for upcoming projects.
While Chiranjeevi’s comments were likely made in jest, they have sparked an important conversation about gender equality and societal expectations.
The backlash serves as a reminder that the preference for male heirs remains a sensitive and controversial topic.
Whether the actor chooses to address the criticism remains to be seen, but his remarks have certainly left a lasting impression on both fans and critics alike.