Following the video in which we saw actor Sivakumar angrily slapping away the phone from a young man’s hand at an event, the actor has issued an explanation for the incident. The video that went viral on Monday resulted in a meme-athon on the internet.
Many criticised the actor for his impulsive reaction to a seemingly innocent act. Following this, Sivakumar has said in his statement that selfies are meant to relish memories and not invade the privacy of celebrities or socialites.
“Taking selfies is something that involves the own interests as it might be something to relish with memories across your vacations and celebratory moments. I have no allegations or claims to make upon one’s personal interests. But when it comes to treating a socialite or a celebrity, it shouldn’t be the same there, where they deserve their privacies and respect too (sic),” reads the statement.
Sivakumar also shares that he was disappointed from the moment he stepped out from his car, with the number of people clicking selfies, unmindful of the guards around. “It happened that from the moment I stepped out of the car and walked into the venue that was occupied with 200-300 people, I felt little disappointed to see around 20-25 people clicking selfies by pushing the volunteers and guards who accompanied me there (sic),” he says.
He also says that a courtesy request can be extended before people start clicking selfies on their phone. “A celebrity cannot be treated or taken for granted as a public property . I am someone, who has never hesitated to take photos at airport and any gatherings with hundreds and thousands of people,” he adds.
Sivakumar further clarifies that he is no Buddha or a saint but an ordinary person like everyone else. He also requests people to think how their deed might affect the other.
“I am not requesting anyone to accept me as their leader or inspiring hero. Everyone is a hero in their own lives with their own ideologies, but at the same time, we should think at least for a while on how some of our deeds might affect others,” concludes the statement.
Sivakumar further issued a video apology following his written statement. “Eager fans in a huge crowd tend to get excited like this. A popular actor has to bear with it. For all those who thought my actions were indeed wrong, I express my deepest regret. My heartfelt apologies to everyone, I am very sorry,” he said.