Atharva Sudame

Ganeshotsav controversy 2025

In August 2025, Atharva became embroiled in controversy after posting a reel during Ganeshotsav promoting religious unity. In the video, Sudame portrayed a devotee buying a Ganesha idol from a Muslim artisan.^[8] The storyline included Sudame's character delivering a message about religious harmony, inspired by his father: “We should be like sugar, which sweetens both kheer and sheer khurma. We should be like a brick, which builds both temples and mosques".^[10][11][12]

Though intended to promote Hindu-Muslim unity, the video received sharp backlash from certain groups who accused him of being provocative and misleading.^[12] Akhil Bhartiya Brahman Mahasangh claimed the reel misrepresented traditions and Pune.^[12] The trolling quickly escalated, resulting in threats and heavy criticism online.^{[13][10][11][8][14]}

In response to the outrage, Sudame deleted the video and issued a public apology, clarifying that his intention was never to hurt anyone's sentiments.^[15] He emphasized that he had long promoted cultural unity through his other content and had no motive other than harmony.^[14] The controversy also brought support from some political leaders and activists, who defended the reel's message and called for tolerance.^[10][16]

Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited controversy 2026

On 2 and 5 January 2026, Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) issued a notices to Atharva Sudame, alleged that he created reels inside PMPML buses without permission and illegally used the corporation's uniform, e-machine, and badge.^[17][18]