Filmmaker Hansal Mehta and his son Jai Mehta have spoken out on social media regarding a recent incident at the Mumbai airport involving South Indian actor Nagarjuna and a fan. The controversy erupted after a video surfaced showing Nagarjuna's bodyguard roughly shoving a fan aside as the actor walked through the airport.

Jai Mehta expressed his disappointment on a social media platform, emphasizing that the incident was particularly upsetting because it mirrored a personal experience involving his brother Pallava, who has Down syndrome. Jai recounted how Pallava, a huge fan of a certain celebrity, had never been granted a meeting despite repeated requests through the star's brother and close friends.

True story. So my son Pallava is a fan of this massive star. I’d requested through his brother, his close friends at various times that meeting the star would mean the world to him. And it would be my gift to my boy. When his eyes were operated the first person he recognised in… https://t.co/7WQYqn1pg3

— Hansal Mehta (@mehtahansal) June 24, 2024

Hansal Mehta amplified his son's post, revealing their persistent yet unsuccessful attempts to arrange a meeting for Pallava. He shared that Pallava, who had recently recognized the celebrity in a newspaper after undergoing eye surgery, had long desired this encounter. Despite their efforts, the requests were met with silence, leading the family to eventually give up.

I’d like to point out (I could be wrong. But I don’t think I am) that the gentleman asking for the ‘stars’ attention seems to be specially abled. Do they actually think a staff member/ employee at an airport who must be witnessing celebrities walk in and out of that very same… https://t.co/Lbig2Zo5NX

— Jai Mehta (@JaiHMehta) June 24, 2024

Jai Mehta criticized the behavior of celebrity security personnel, calling for better crowd management and a more considerate approach. He stressed the need for celebrities, politicians, and sports figures to adopt a less self-centered attitude and prioritize interacting with their fans. Jai also highlighted an instance where his brother was disregarded even by "so-called woke people," raising concerns about inclusivity for individuals with special needs.

Following the online backlash, Nagarjuna issued an apology on the same social media platform, acknowledging the incident and expressing regret. He promised to take necessary precautions to ensure such situations do not occur again.

The incident has sparked a broader discussion about the responsibilities of public figures and the importance of treating all fans, especially those with special needs, with respect and dignity.