Actor Prakash Raj lost work for political views, says wife Pony Varma

Actor Prakash Raj has lost several film roles and advertising assignments because of his outspoken political opinions, according to his wife, Pony Varma. Speaking in an interview, Pony revealed that filmmakers have backed out of projects with him even after paying advance amounts. She noted that his political stances often invite accusations of being anti-national or anti-Hindu, though his core concerns remain focused on basic needs like schools and hospitals.

Family and Fear

Pony recalled that she used to be terrified for her husband's safety whenever he made strong political statements. That fear began to change following the death of journalist Gauri Lankesh, after which Prakash declared he would continue speaking out. Despite facing constant abuse and losing work, Pony stated that her husband refuses to hold grudges and is often the first to help people in trouble. The couple also maintains different personal beliefs, as Pony is a God-fearing temple-goer while Prakash is an atheist, yet they celebrate festivals like Diwali and Christmas with equal enthusiasm at home.

Protests and Courage

Pony also recounted being terrified while watching Prakash join student protests at Jantar Mantar following the NEET paper leak controversy, where she witnessed lathi charges and pellet firing. She shared that despite her fears and her suggestion that he stay in a hotel, the 60-year-old actor chose to sleep on the stage with the protesting students. More recently, Prakash released a video addressing an Election Commission controversy, where he accused the government of dishonesty and manipulation.

Context

Public figures in India frequently face professional consequences and intense public debate when they take strong political positions against the ruling administration. Prakash Raj is widely known across the Indian film industry for working in multiple languages including Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi, alongside his active commentary on social and political issues.