When your film gets trolled online, you have two choices — stay silent, or speak up. Director Harish Shankar chose the latter, and what he said at a recent fan interaction event is both refreshing and remarkably level-headed. Here’s everything you need to know about the controversy surrounding Ustaad Bhagat Singh and the filmmaker’s unfiltered response.
Table of Contents
Ustaad Bhagat Singh Film & Controversy — At a Glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Film Title | Ustaad Bhagat Singh |
| Lead Actor | Pawan Kalyan |
| Co-leads | Sreeleela, Raashii Khanna |
| Director | Harish Shankar |
| Release Date | March 19, 2026 |
| Genre | Action Drama-Comedy |
| Online Reception | Mixed — with significant trolling |
| 5-Day Box Office | Rs. 66 crore (crashed on Day 5) |
What Did Harish Shankar Actually Say?

Speaking at a fan interaction event, Harish Shankar drew a clear line between trolling and genuine criticism. The director said he takes constructive criticism seriously — such as noting that a scene could have been better written or that the first half was slow — but does not consider anonymous online trolling worth engaging with, pointing out that such users are too insecure to even reveal their identity.
He also added that if he had taken online trolling to heart over the years, he would have quit social media long ago. Honest, grounded, and frankly — hard to argue with.
In the age of social media, where anonymous criticism often drowns out thoughtful engagement, Harish Shankar’s response is a reminder that not all noise deserves equal attention.
What Is Ustaad Bhagat Singh About?
The film follows a tribal boy mentored by a noble teacher who grows up to become a police officer with a strong sense of social justice. When a group attempts to assassinate the Chief Minister — who was once his mentor — Bhagat must confront these forces and fight for justice. \
It’s a film with genuine ambition — patriotism, social conscience, and mass entertainer energy all rolled into one. The mixed online response doesn’t necessarily reflect the theatrical experience, which the director clearly believes in.
👉 Also read: Best Telugu Action Films of 2026 — TechnoSports
Should You Still Watch It?
Despite the noise online, Ustaad Bhagat Singh carries the trademark Harish Shankar-Pawan Kalyan entertainment DNA that Telugu audiences love. If you’re a fan of massy action-dramas with emotional depth, it still warrants a watch.
👉 Stay updated on South Indian cinema news and reviews at TechnoSports.
FAQs
Q: Why is Ustaad Bhagat Singh trending online after its release?
The film received mixed online reactions post its March 19, 2026 release, prompting director Harish Shankar to publicly address the trolling and defend the film’s creative merit.
Q: Who stars in Ustaad Bhagat Singh and who directed it?
Ustaad Bhagat Singh stars Pawan Kalyan in the lead role alongside Sreeleela and Raashii Khanna, and is directed by Harish Shankar.





