Popular Indian actress Nidhhi Agerwal, known for her prominent roles in the Telugu, Tamil and Hindi films, revealed the pervasive impact of “paid negative PR” and industry politics in a recent podcast.
Speaking with popular lifestyle podcaster and entrepreneur Ranveer Allahbadia on Tuesday, Agerwal highlighted how high-level figures and competitors often spend significant capital to orchestrate social media attacks and lower the ratings of rival projects.
The actor, who recently starred alongside Telugu superstar Prabhas in the high-budget film Raja Saab, used the platform to advocate for mental health awareness among creators who face constant digital scrutiny.
Agerwal, who has amassed a significant following after her debut in the 2017 film Munna Michael, provided a rare look into the internal mechanics of the South Indian film industry.
She explained that while the Telugu industry is often viewed as more disciplined and work-oriented than its counterparts, it is not immune to the “PR games” that plague modern entertainment.
The actor described how “paid media” campaigns can target specific actors to damage their public standing, noting that even established stars like Kartik Aaryan and Varun Dhawan have reportedly faced such fabricated controversies.
During the conversation, Agerwal shared deeply personal accounts of her spiritual evolution, citing a pivotal moment in Kashi where she experienced a profound internal shift following a period of personal hardship.
She noted that practising Reiki and meditation has become essential for maintaining her equilibrium. These practices, she explained, helped her navigate the high-pressure environment of a “pan-India” career where a single film’s release can feel like a psychological roller coaster.
The actor also offered high praise for her Raja Saab co-star, Prabhas, describing him as the “nicest and purest person” she has encountered in the industry.
Agerwal observed that despite his status as one of India’s most successful actors, Prabhas remains remarkably “child-like” and detached from the typical ego-driven politics of filmmaking. She contrasted his authentic nature with the “fake it till you make it” culture often encouraged by media managers and talent agents.
The interview concluded with a discussion on the temporary nature of fame and the importance of building goodwill rather than just chasing engagement metrics.
Agerwal remains one of the few actors to successfully transition between regional cinema and national stardom, maintaining a steady career with hits like iSmart Shankar.
