A clip of the actor's arrival at the Gujarat ceremony went viral, spurring a wave of comments. A user named Abbas took the opportunity to criticize the tradition of a tilak.
Harisree Yousuf, known for his sharp wit, posted a video on Instagram, calling for a broader view of religious customs.
He draws parallels between a tilak, a Christian cross, and a bow, arguing that all are expressions of devotion. Yousuf noted that the gesture is a simple welcome, not a religious mandate.
The veteran actor himself answered the criticism, reminding his audience of his philanthropic work and his four‑time National Award record. He also highlighted the charitable initiatives he supports.
Yousuf warned against using faith as a weapon, even calling the critic’s mindset "Taliban‑esque," urging unity and respect across communities. He urged fans to look beyond sectarian lenses.
Finally, the episode shows how a simple welcome can spark a national conversation about identity, tradition, and respect in the film world.