Dhanush’s “Sold Flowers for Idlis” Story Sparks Netizen Backlash 🍽️
- MediaFx
- Sep 15
- 2 min read
TL;DR
At the audio launch of his new movie Idli Kadai, actor-director Dhanush shared that as a kid he used to collect and sell flowers just to buy idlis. But many online users aren’t buying the story, since his dad was already a film director back then. The internet is now debating whether his memory is genuine or just hype.
What Dhanush Said
He recalled waking up before dawn as a child to collect flowers.
He said he and his siblings would sell them for a few rupees.
With that money, they’d buy 4-5 idlis, which he described as the sweetest meal of his life.
He shared that the satisfaction of eating something earned with effort is unforgettable.
What the Internet Is Saying
Some users pointed out that his father, Kasturi Raja, was directing films in the 90s, so the family may not have faced such poverty.
A few accused him of exaggerating, calling it a “filmy dialogue” instead of truth.
Supporters argued that even families with modest stability can have tough days, and maybe this was just one such phase.
Many said this might be a case of memory being romanticized over time.
Context & Details
The story was shared at the launch of Idli Kadai, directed and acted by Dhanush.
The film will release on 1 October.
Cast includes Nithya Menen, Arun Vijay, Shalini Pandey, Sathyaraj, Parthiban, Samuthirakani, and Rajkiran.
Analysis & Thoughts
Memory vs Perception: Childhood memories are often emotional, not factual accounts. What felt like a struggle to a child may look different to outsiders.
Privilege vs Struggle: Even with a director father, it doesn’t mean every day was smooth. The early film industry years were not always glamorous.
Celebrity Narratives: Stars often highlight struggles to connect with fans. This helps make them more relatable, but it also invites heavy scrutiny.
Social Media Lens: Today, every word is fact-checked instantly. The slightest gap in narrative becomes viral controversy.
From the People’s Perspective (MediaFx Opinion)
For the working class, such stories strike a chord. Many still skip meals or hustle small jobs just for basic food. If Dhanush’s memory is true, it reminds us how common such struggles are. If not, then it shows how even privileged stars try to borrow from people’s pain to appear “relatable.”
What really matters is honesty. A star admitting their comforts while also showing respect for the struggles of ordinary people would feel more genuine. Because the truth is — thousands of youth today still work for their next plate of idli. Instead of glamorizing it, society should ensure no one has to hustle for a basic meal.
