In a major development likely to shake the Telugu film industry, 25 prominent actors and influencers from Tollywood have been named in a police FIR for allegedly promoting illegal betting apps. This case, filed in Telangana, comes on the heels of recent legal tensions between the state government and the film fraternity.
Celebrities Named in the FIR
Among the most high-profile names in the case are actors Rana Daggubati, Prakash Raj, Vijay Devarakonda, and Manchu Lakshmi. The list also includes several other actors and digital influencers, such as Praneetha, Nidhi Agarwal, Ananya Nagalla, Siri Hanumanthu, Sreemukhi, Varshini Sounderajan, Vasanthi Krishnan, Shoba Shetty, Amrutha Chowdary, and Tasty Teja, among others.
The FIR was filed following a complaint by businessman Phanindra Sarma, who alleged that these celebrities endorsed and promoted betting platforms through social media, luring vulnerable individuals into financial risk.
Allegations of Misleading Promotion and Public Harm
According to the complaint, the celebrities accepted large sums in exchange for endorsing betting apps and websites. These platforms, heavily marketed through influencer promotions, have reportedly led to significant financial distress among the middle-class and lower-income families.
The FIR reads: “Thousands of lakhs of rupees are involved in these illegal platforms. These platforms are encouraging people in financial need to invest their hard-earned money, often resulting in addiction and economic collapse.”
Sarma also revealed that he himself considered depositing money into one such platform but refrained after his family intervened.
Legal Context and Industry Reactions
The FIR has been registered under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Information Technology Act, and relevant state laws related to cheating and online fraud.
Reacting to the developments, actor Prakash Raj stated that he had appeared in an advertisement for such a platform back in 2015 and had ended his association with it within a year. He noted that he is currently seeking more information about the ongoing case.
A spokesperson for Rana Daggubati clarified that the actor had signed a contract in 2017 to endorse a skill-based gaming platform, which was operational only in regions where such services were legally allowed. “The agreement was legally reviewed and in full compliance with all applicable laws. The game promoted was recognised by the Supreme Court as a skill-based activity and not gambling,” the spokesperson added.
A Growing Rift Between Government and Tollywood?
The timing of the FIR has led to speculation of renewed tension between the film industry and the Telangana government, led by Chief Minister Revanth Reddy. The FIR follows the controversial arrest of actor Allu Arjun last December after a woman died during a stampede at a premiere event for Pushpa 2: The Rule.
Arjun’s arrest had sparked widespread backlash, with several film personalities questioning the government’s stance. In response, Revanth Reddy had reassured the industry of the state’s support, while asserting that law and order would not be compromised.
Now, with the fresh FIR naming top Tollywood figures, it remains to be seen how the legal proceedings unfold—and whether this will deepen the friction between the state and the entertainment industry.