Daaku Maharaaj Premieres Amid Controversies

The much-anticipated action thriller Daaku Maharaaj premiered on Netflix on February 21, 2025, following its theatrical release on January 12. Starring Urvashi Rautela and Nandamuri Balakrishna, the film has remained in the spotlight for multiple controversies, ranging from the song Dabidi Dibidi to remarks made during its promotional events.

Dabidi Dibidi Song Controversy

The song Dabidi Dibidi, sung by Vagdevi, has been at the center of criticism, with social media users calling its choreography “obscene,” “vulgar,” and “downright cringe.” While the track features some of Nandamuri Balakrishna's signature dialogues, the choreography, handled by Shekhar Master, faced backlash. Fans and critics alike disapproved of the dance moves, leading to widespread debate on social media.

Additionally, the age gap between the lead actors—Nandamuri Balakrishna, 64, and Urvashi Rautela, 30—sparked discussions, with many questioning the casting choices. Responding to the criticism, Urvashi Rautela addressed the controversy in an interaction with The Hollywood Reporter India, stating, “It was hard to assess why people are talking about the choreography in this way.”

Urvashi Rautela Faces Backlash

Urvashi Rautela also found herself at the center of another controversy following remarks made at a promotional event. The actress was trolled online for what many considered an insensitive response to actor Saif Ali Khan’s stabbing incident. Instead of addressing the attack directly, Rautela diverted attention to the film’s box office success and her luxury possessions.

In an interview with ANI, she stated, “It is very unfortunate. Now, Daaku Maharaaj has crossed Rs 105 crore at the box office, and my mother gifted me this diamond-studded Rolex, while my father gifted me this mini watch on my finger, but we don’t feel confident to wear it outside openly. There is this insecurity that anybody can attack us. Whatever happened was very unfortunate.”

Her comments drew sharp criticism, with many accusing her of being tone-deaf to the gravity of the incident.

Star-Studded Cast & Direction

Despite the controversies, Daaku Maharaaj boasts a stellar cast, including Bobby Deol, Pragya Jaiswal, Shraddha Srinath, Shine Tom Chacko, Sachin Khedekar, and Pradeep Rawat in key roles. Directed by Bobby Kolli, the film continues to generate buzz as it transitions to streaming platforms, where audiences can judge its merit for themselves.