Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein was released more than twenty years ago but maintains its penchant among Bollywood aficionados for a choice status. In recent years, however, the film and, by extension, its protagonist Maddy have been accused of romance and emotional manipulation and stalking. Madhavan, coming forth to respond to this discussion, has defended his role. R Madhavan Responds to RHTDM trolls and toxic label.
Amidst all the talks of social awareness and feminist critique, RHTDM has often been called a glorifier of toxic masculinity. Many online discussions debate Maddy’s obsessive chase of Reena (Dia Mirza) and its subsequent implications on love and consent.
The fans so enamored with the character have since wavered in their allegiance, leading to questions about older films often romanticizing such behavior under the guise of love.
In a recent interview, R Madhavan spoke at length about his character’s newfound toxic label: “Name one male actor who hasn’t played a role that wouldn’t be called problematic by today’s standards.”
“Madhavan said, RHTDM was a product of its time. We didn’t know the term toxic masculinity back then; it was just storytelling, the people related to it differently.”
He further argued it may not be constructive to judge older films against contemporary social standards. “I’ve played all sorts of characters in my career, from romantic leads to mature, respectful men. A role doesn’t define the actor or their values,” he said.
ALSO READ: R Madhavan praises Priyanka Chopra amid Boycott Bollywood trends
An Actor Evolving With Time
Madhavan accepted that cinema evolves; so do the actors. Madhavan has been quick to praise the modern-day storytelling that tracks consent, equality, and mental health, fully endorsing it.
”As artists, we grow,” he continues. “I am very proud of the roles I choose today. But I will not apologize for a film that brought joy to millions and set my journey in motion.”
Madhavan’s unvarnished and fair take may still be divisive, but it does provide a fresh take on nostalgia, accountability, and how cinema moves through time.
Share
Did Samantha make her relationship Official with Raj Nidimoru?
Bharat Bandh Today: Will Schools, Banks and Power Services Be Affected?
