The recently released lyrical video of Sarse Ninna Seraga Sarse from KD - The Devil, starring Dhruva Sarja, Reeshma Nananaih, Shilpa Shetty, Nora Fatehi and Sanjay Dutt, has sparked a wave of criticism online, with some netizens calling its lyrics and visuals ‘vulgar’ and ‘regressive.’ Just a few hours after the song was released, several users described the track as ‘regressive,’ arguing that it reinforces outdated stereotypes about women under the guise of mass entertainment. 

A section of viewers also took issue with the choreography and styling, saying it leaned heavily on “male gaze-driven” presentation rather than narrative relevance. Critics on social media pointed out that such songs continue to normalise problematic portrayals, especially in big-ticket films featuring stars like Dhruva Sarja and Sanjay Dutt. Others questioned the creative choices, asking whether commercial appeal is being prioritized over sensitivity and evolving audience expectations.

In an exclusive conversation with Bangalore Times, director Prem defends his recent song Sarse Ninna Seraga Sarse, saying the outrage is premature and rooted in misinterpretation. Director Prem, who has also penned the lyrics, calls the backlash “misplaced” and urges audiences to reserve judgment until the full video is released. “If one’s angle of view is right, they won’t take this song the wrong way. Why is it that whenever a woman is involved, people assume the worst?” he asks.

Prem insists the lyrical video was only meant to pique curiosity, a standard practice in film promotions. “People are reacting without watching the actual video or understanding the context,” he says, adding that he is open to criticism — but only after the complete song is out.

Addressing specific concerns about the lyrics, Prem explains that the song uses metaphor and wordplay, which may not be immediately obvious. “The entire song revolves around the ‘bottle’. I can’t keep repeating that word — it loses its charm. The visuals will make it clearer,” he explains. He points to specific lines in the song that, according to him, carry a deeper meaning. In the first verse, he writes “Kaiyal baatlu antha manevargo thakkondu hogbedi…” — a line he says is a caution against taking one’s drinking habits back home.

In the second verse, he adds “Meese hotthorigella, naan ondu question kella…”, which according to Prem the character questions men about why they seek time outside when they have a loving wife waiting at home. Prem maintains that these nuances are being overlooked. “People are not listening to the lyrics precisely before pointing out mistakes,” he says, reiterating that the full video will offer better context to the metaphors used.

Prem says he is not dismissing criticism but believes systems exist to address such concerns. “We have the Censor Board for a reason. I trust them and will stand by their decision.” He clarifies that while the Hindi version of the song has been taken down, he is not directly involved. “A different team handles the Hindi release,” he says, adding that the Kannada version will remain. Standing by his work, Prem reiterates that his intent is to entertain, not offend. “If a small section wants to label the song, they are free to. But I know I mean no harm.”