Critics argue that he may be exploiting the emotional devotion of his fans, who view him as a larger-than-life figure, to push forward a religious agenda that could be divisive. This situation highlights the risks when fan loyalty in cinema intersects with political ambition, where the influence of a beloved star could overshadow the importance of rational, independent decision-making among his followers.
One of his fans recently commented on the potential dangers of Kalyan’s political strategy, pointing out that Pawan's actions could have significant consequences in Andhra Pradesh. The fan argued that Kalyan’s use of Hindutva rhetoric has the potential to convert his fan base into proponents of religious nationalism, which could fuel polarization within the state.
The fan’s words underscore a fear that Kalyan’s actions may shift his followers' allegiance from merely supporting a celebrity to becoming fervent advocates of a specific political ideology. Given the blind faith that some fans reportedly hold for him, there is concern that they may adopt these political beliefs without fully understanding their implications. This raises questions about the ethical responsibilities of celebrities who transition into politics, especially in a diverse and sensitive context like that of Andhra Pradesh.