Sun Oct 12 15:30:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Actor-director Pradeep Ranganathan, promoting his upcoming film “Dude,” faced a disrespectful question from a journalist who questioned his suitability as a leading man. Veteran actor R. Sarathkumar defended Ranganathan, emphasizing that there is no fixed definition of a hero and anyone benefiting society can be considered one. Ranganathan responded humbly, attributing his success to hard work and his ability to connect with audiences who see themselves in him. His upcoming film “Dude” is set to release on October 17.

**News Article:**

**Veteran Actor Sarathkumar Defends Pradeep Ranganathan Against Journalist’s Insulting Question at “Dude” Promotion**

**Chennai, India -** During a promotional event for the upcoming film “Dude,” starring Pradeep Ranganathan and Mamitha Baiju, a journalist sparked controversy by questioning Ranganathan’s “hero material” credentials. The demeaning question, directed at the actor-director, was met with swift and supportive condemnation from veteran actor R. Sarathkumar.

The journalist asked: “You don’t look like hero material. But you seem to have found success and a fan following in movies. Will you attribute it to luck or hard work?”

Before Ranganathan could respond, Sarathkumar, drawing from his extensive experience in the film industry, took the microphone. “You cannot say from A to Z who is hero material,” he stated firmly. “Everybody here is hero material. There’s no fixed specification for a hero. A person doing anything that benefits society is a hero.”

Ranganathan, known for his humility, responded with grace. He thanked Sarathkumar and acknowledged the hard work involved in his career. He further explained his connection with audiences, saying, “I think people connect with me because they see a part of themselves in me. When they watch the screen, they feel like they are the hero — they’re the ones acting, fighting, and romancing. And because they see themselves in me, I already become a hero in their eyes.”

“Dude,” described as a romantic comedy-action drama, is set to hit theaters on October 17, following Ranganathan’s previous blockbuster “Dragon.” The film also features Neha Shetty, Rohini, and Hridhu Haroon. Ranganathan’s next venture following Dude is “Love Insurance Kompany,” directed by Vignesh Shivan, which will co-star Krithi Shetty.

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