Chinmayi Sripaada defends journalist criticised for asking Rana about ‘Dorothy’ title

Picture Credit: X

Singer Chinmayi Sripaada has come out in support of a journalist who faced criticism online after asking Rana Daggubati about the title of 'Dorothy' during the film’s Telugu release announcement. Chinmayi argued that not everyone may have grown up with the same access to books and popular culture, urging social-media users to show greater empathy instead of judging the reporter for asking a basic question about the film’s title.

Chinmayi Sripaada defends journalist over 'Dorothy' title question

According to a report by The Indian Express, Chinmayi Sripaada defended the journalist after a clip from the 'Dorothy' Telugu release event circulated online. The reporter had asked Rana Daggubati why the film retained the title Dorothy for its Telugu release and what the name meant. Chinmayi subsequently addressed the criticism directed at the journalist on X (formerly Twitter).Responding to the criticism, Chinmayi referred to 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz', the children's book by L.

Frank Baum in which Dorothy is the central character. She pointed out that familiarity with books and popular culture cannot necessarily be assumed for everyone.

“It is very easy to ask (insult) if the Journalist didn’t know Dorothy was the name of a character from a kid’s story book from 1900 called the Wizard of Oz. One of the most magical books one could read as a child that fires the imagination,” she wrote.Chinmayi further highlighted differences in people's childhood experiences and access to reading material.

“Access and the luxury to read story books or even read anything at all including comics; something that some got to enjoy in their childhood wasn’t something every child had. Some empathy would be great,” she added.

Rana Daggubati explains the meaning of 'Dorothy'

During the interaction, Rana was asked about the decision to retain Dorothy as the title for the Telugu release. Explaining its significance, the actor-filmmaker said the name belongs to a character in the film and that its relevance would become clear after audiences watch the story.

The interaction subsequently became a talking point on social media after some users criticised the reporter for asking about the title.“Dorothy means a gift from God. That's a character's name in the film. Once you watch the film, you will understand why the film needs to be named that. I don't even know what else we could name it,” Rana said.

'Dorothy' faces online debate over its themes

'Dorothy' has also generated discussion online over its themes and treatment of queer relationships. The film follows two childhood friends whose lives change after a woman enters their lives, with Keerthy Suresh playing the titular character. The story is set in the 1980s. The film has faced criticism and calls for a boycott from some sections of social media over its LGBTQ+ themes. Director

Karthik Subbaraj

has subsequently responded to the backlash, saying that some criticism has come from people who had not watched the film.

The film has also received support from sections of the industry. Dhanush, for instance, praised the film ahead of its theatrical release and described it as a “masterpiece”.

'Dorothy' Telugu release details

'Dorothy' is directed by Karthik Subbaraj and stars Keerthy Suresh alongside Sananth and Rishikanth. The film's Telugu version is being presented by Rana Daggubati under Spirit Media and is scheduled to arrive in theatres in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana on October 2.