Shiva Rajkumar breaks silence on backlash over calling Pradeep Ranganathan 'Sir', credits 'Appaji' Dr Rajkumar's upbringing: 'If criticising me gives them happiness, they can continue'

A small gesture at a film event has turned into an unexpected talking point in the South Indian film industry. Kannada star Shiva Rajkumar addressing Tamil actor Pradeep Ranganathan as "sir" during a recent interaction sparked debate online, with several social media users questioning why a senior, more experienced actor would use the term for someone younger. Shiva Rajkumar has now responded, offering a clear explanation for his choice of words.