Fans of South Indian cinema were stunned on Thursday as the Enforcement Directorate (ED) filed cases against 29 film celebrities, YouTubers, and influencers for allegedly endorsing illegal betting applications. Notable names in the list include Vijay Deverakonda, Rana Daggubati, Lakshmi Manchu, and Prakash Raj.
Others named are Nidhhi Agerwal, Ananya Nagalla, Pranitha Subhash, TV anchors Sreemukhi and Shyamala, YouTubers Harsha Sai and Bayya Sunny Yadav, and actor “Local Boy” Nani.
The controversy surfaced after businessman Phanindra Sharma lodged a complaint claiming that these public figures promoted platforms that deceived people—particularly the youth—into risking their savings in betting scams. Acting on this, the Cyberabad Police registered an FIR on March 19.
Authorities say the apps amassed thousands of crores by enticing users with promises of large profits. The ED has now assumed control of the probe under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and is examining the payments the celebrities received for their endorsements.
In response, Vijay Deverakonda’s team stated he only endorsed A23, a skill-based gaming app, and ended the campaign in 2023. Rana Daggubati maintained he followed all legal requirements while promoting similar apps. Prakash Raj acknowledged promoting a betting platform in 2016 but claimed he later withdrew upon learning of its nature.
The ED has yet to disclose its next steps in the investigation.