Actors Nayanthara and filmmaker Vignesh Shivan are facing intense backlash for working with choreographer Jani Master, who is currently facing charges under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
The controversy erupted after Vignesh Shivan announced that Jani Master had joined the team of his upcoming film Love Insurance Kompany.
Jani himself shared a behind-the-scenes post on July 1, praising Shivan and expressing his excitement about their collaboration.
“Candid and 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,” Jani wrote on Instagram.
Vignesh re-shared the post, adding, “Sweeet Master Ji. Team LIK loves you and your vibe a lot.”
The social media reaction was swift and harsh, with many expressing disappointment that the couple chose to work with someone facing such serious allegations.
Nayanthara, who is one of the producers of the film, also drew criticism for endorsing the project. Critics pointed out the contradiction between her past advocacy for women in cinema and her silence on this matter.
Singer Chinmayi Sripaada condemned the collaboration, posting on X (formerly Twitter): “Jani is out on conditional bail involving a minor’s sexual assault. We as a people seem to love 'talented' offenders and will keep promoting them... which the offenders use to harangue the women more — ‘See, nothing will happen to me.’ It is just how we are. Sweeeeeet!”
Another user wrote, “Nayanthara called herself a self-made woman who knows the struggles of female actors, urged stars to speak out, and thanked those who supported her. Yet she’s fine with her husband backing a man accused under POCSO. Why the double standards?”
Some questioned Vignesh’s awareness of how his actions impact his wife’s image. “Don’t know when Wikki is gonna understand he’s not a single person anymore. Whatever he does or says reflects directly on Nayanthara,” one user said. “A happy post with a choreographer accused of child abuse is seriously a big misstep.”
Others were less surprised, with one comment stating, “It’s not news that Vignesh Shivan and Nayanthara support predators. Why are y’all surprised?”
Background on Jani Master’s Controversy
In September 2024, Jani Master confessed to sexually assaulting a junior colleague when she was a minor. He was arrested under the POCSO Act but later released on conditional bail.
The National Award he received for Best Choreography — for the song Megam Karukkatha from Thiruchitrambalam — was revoked following the allegations.
The controversy continues to spark debate on accountability and ethics in the entertainment industry, especially when it comes to supporting individuals accused of serious crimes.