Actor Ram Charan was caught in a chaotic mob of fans at a promotional event for his upcoming film Peddi in Bengaluru on Tuesday, leaving the star struggling to protect his previously injured hand amid the crushing crowd.
The actor, accompanied by co-star Janhvi Kapoor and music composer AR Rahman, had arrived at a mall in the city’s central business district for an event. While security had been arranged, the sheer number of fans — many of whom had gathered overnight — overwhelmed the arrangements.
A swarm of fans, a split-second of chaos
According to eyewitnesses, the situation spiralled out of control the moment Ram Charan stepped out of his vehicle. Despite a cordoned pathway, fans broke through barricades and surged towards the actor.
In the melee, several hands reached out to touch the actor. Multiple fans grabbed at his arms — including his right hand, which he had injured during the shooting of a stunt sequence for Peddi last month.
Ram Charan visibly winced in pain and gestured to the crowd to step back. His security team struggled to create a protective ring around him, while event organizers appealed to fans to maintain calm.
Within minutes, the actor was rushed back inside the venue, and the event was briefly paused before resuming with stricter security.
‘He was in visible pain’
A source present at the event told PTI: “Ram Charan was in visible pain. He was trying to protect his right hand while also not wanting to disappoint fans who had come from far away. It was a difficult situation.”
The actor was seen shaking his hand and flexing his fingers after reaching the stage. His co-star Janhvi Kapoor looked visibly concerned and was seen asking him if he was okay.
Despite the pain, Ram Charan completed the event, spoke about the film, and even posed for photographs. However, he avoided using his right hand for any gestures or handshakes.
Medical attention
After the event, Ram Charan was examined by a physician who confirmed that the hand had not suffered any fresh fracture or dislocation but advised rest for a few days. The actor was also given painkillers and a cold compress.
The Peddi team has not issued an official statement, but a source close to the actor said he was “doing fine” and that the incident would not affect the film’s release schedule.
Fan reaction on social media
The incident has sparked outrage on social media, with fans condemning the “reckless behaviour” of a few individuals.
“This is not love. This is madness. Ram Charan was injured because some fans couldn’t control themselves. We need to do better,” wrote one user on X.
Another user posted: “He came to meet you, and you hurt him. This is shameful. Respect your heroes, don’t harm them.”
Several fan clubs have issued statements urging followers to maintain discipline at public events and not to put the actor or themselves at risk.
Police case against unidentified fans
The Bengaluru police have registered a case against unidentified individuals for violating safety protocols and causing a public nuisance. Mall management has also been asked to explain the security lapse.
A senior police officer said they were reviewing CCTV footage to identify those who mobbed the actor and pulled his hand. “Action will be taken against those found guilty,” the officer added.
The injured hand: a recurring issue
Ram Charan had injured his right hand while filming a high-octane stunt sequence for Peddi in March. The injury had required medical attention, and the actor was advised several weeks of rest. While he had returned to work, the hand was still in the recovery phase.
This is not the first time a Telugu star has been injured during a fan event. In 2024, Allu Arjun’s hand was bruised when fans mobbed him at a pre-release event in Hyderabad. Jr NTR has also spoken about being “manhandled” by fans on multiple occasions.
The Peddi team’s response
Director Buchi Babu Sana, who was present at the event, condemned the incident. “We love the fans, but this is unacceptable. Ram Charan came despite his injury to meet you. The least you could do is not hurt him,” he told the crowd after the actor was rushed backstage.
Janhvi Kapoor also appealed for calm. “Please, for his safety and for your own, don’t do this. He is here to entertain you, not to be harmed,” she said.
AR Rahman, who was seated on stage, looked on in shock as the chaos unfolded.
Looking ahead
The Peddi team is scheduled to travel to Chennai for the next promotional event. Security arrangements are expected to be significantly tightened.
As for Ram Charan, the actor is believed to be resting at his hotel in Bengaluru. He is expected to return to Hyderabad on Wednesday.
Fans have flooded social media with wishes for his speedy recovery — and with demands that those who hurt him be identified and penalised.
