Nayanthara and Vignesh Shivan Face Backlash Over Collaboration with Jani Master Amidst POCSO Allegations
Filmmaker Vignesh Shivan and his wife, prominent actress Nayanthara, have recently come under fire on social media following their confirmed collaboration with choreographer Jani Master. The controversy stems from serious allegations of sexual assault against Jani Master, currently under investigation as per the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Social Media Outcry Ignited by On-Set Post
The backlash intensified after Vignesh Shivan re-shared an Instagram Story announcing Jani Master's involvement in his upcoming project, Love Insurance Kompany. This decision immediately sparked a wave of online criticism, with numerous social media users expressing their dismay and accusing the filmmaker of associating with an individual facing such grave accusations.
On July 1st, Jani Master himself had posted on social media, featuring a photo and a candid video with Vignesh Shivan on the film's set. His caption read, "Candid & crazy with the dearest #VigneshShivan Sir on the sets of #LoveInsuranceKompany. It's always a joy working with you for the care, respect and trust you shower on me sir. Can't wait to show the magic we created to all of them." This public display of camaraderie further fueled the online debate.
Accountability Questions for the 'Power Couple'
The criticism quickly extended to Nayanthara, who, as Vignesh Shivan's wife and a producer of Love Insurance Kompany, was also called out for her perceived endorsement of the collaboration. Social media users voiced their disappointment and concern over the couple's choice to work with an individual accused of a serious offense, reigniting broader discussions around accountability and ethical responsibility within the film industry.
Comments from users reflected the widespread outrage:
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One user questioned, "It's not news that Vignesh Shivan and Nayan support predators. Why are y'all surprised?"
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Another strongly stated, "Wtf. This Vignesh Shivan clown went out of his way to put story for him. Such ppl should also be cancelled."
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A particularly pointed comment read, "There’s a reason people are losing respect for #VigneshShivan. First it was Dileep. Now it’s Jani Master. Keep calling accused predators a 'vibe' and we see exactly where you stand — not with survivors. And #Nayanthara is just okay with it? Some 'power couple.' @NayantharaU."
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Another user highlighted perceived inconsistencies: "There’s something seriously wrong with this guy. Casting bayilvan ranganathan, seeman and now bringing in this pedo, calling him sweet and saying love you ewwww. Hope the movie flops badly and this disgusting l****a disappears from the industry forever."
Background on Jani Master's Allegations
For those unaware, in September 2024, choreographer Jani Master publicly admitted to sexually assaulting a junior colleague when the victim was a minor. Following this admission, he was arrested under the POCSO Act. He was subsequently released on conditional bail. In the aftermath of his arrest, his National Award for Best Choreography—awarded for the song "Megam Karukkatha" from Dhanush and Nithya Menen's Thiruchitrambalam—was formally suspended.
The ongoing controversy underscores the increasing scrutiny on public figures and their associations, particularly when serious legal and ethical issues are involved, prompting a wider conversation about moral standards in the entertainment industry.
