The controversy over the song “Sarse Ninna Seraga Sarse” (Hindi version “Sarke Chunar Teri Sarke”) from the upcoming Kannada movie KD: The Devil has gotten bigger. Now, Kichcha Sudeep, who plays a key cameo in the film, has strongly defended director Prem against the nationwide criticism.
Sudeep attended a press conference with the film’s team on April 28, 2026. He addressed the backlash head-on, asking people to remember everything Prem has done for Kannada cinema before judging him based on one song.
Sudeep’s Message: Remember The Director’s Good Work
Instead of focusing only on the current problem, Sudeep reminded everyone of Prem’s history of making meaningful family songs. He said that Prem has created music that brought families closer, including songs about a mother’s love that people listen to on repeat.
Kichcha Sudeep then made a strong statement about people who are not from Karnataka. He said that those outside the state do not know Prem’s true value and full body of work. He argued that while people are free to have their opinions, they should remember the positive contributions this director has given to the industry.
“Prem has made songs in the past that have brought us closer to our parents, songs on mothers’ love and emotions, which we’ve heard on loop. People outside Karnataka can say what they wish to, but we should keep in mind the contribution this man has given.” – Kichcha Sudeep
Sudeep did not blindly say the song was perfect. He admitted that sometimes creative choices do not work out, and that is simply part of filmmaking. He added, “I am not saying he has made a mistake with his song; sometimes, some things don’t work, and it’s okay.”
A Request To Fans: ‘Don’t Make Him Feel Small’
The actor also focused on the mental toll the social media firestorm has taken on the director. He noted that the intense negative reaction crossed a line. Sudeep specifically asked Kannada audiences and netizens to be kinder.
He described how Prem was being treated very badly online, calling it cruelty against one of their own. He pleaded with people to be sensitive, labeling his statement as a request rather than just advice.
“Social media is a space for people to share their opinions. But it is not right to make a man feel so small. Is it okay for us to be so harsh on our own people?” – Kichcha Sudeep
Sudeep also explained why he agreed to do the cameo role of Kaala Bhairava in the film. He clarified that he did it out of affection for Prem and to support a big Kannada project starring Dhruva Sarja, not as a favor.
The Fallout: Song Removal and Legal Action
The song that caused the trouble was pulled down from YouTube shortly after its release because the lyrics were seen as too suggestive and disrespectful to women. The movie’s trailer was also temporarily taken down for containing uncertified content, but the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) later gave the film an ‘A’ certificate.
The situation escalated to legal authorities. The National Commission for Women (NCW) and the Karnataka State Commission for Women took action, summoning the makers and actors.
Actress Nora Fatehi, who performed in the song, said she did not understand the Kannada lyrics at the time of the shoot. Sanjay Dutt, who also appears in the track, appeared before the commission and apologized.
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Director Prem’s Response and The Film’s Release
Following the backlash and a meeting with the Film Chamber, Director Prem apologized and promised to revise the lyrics. The film’s team confirmed they were rewriting the specific portions of the song.
Despite the hurdles, the team is moving forward with the release. KD: The Devil is set to hit theaters on April 30, 2026. The film is a period gangster drama starring Dhruva Sarja, Shilpa Shetty, Sanjay Dutt, and Jisshu Sengupta.
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