Days after mentioning his caste identity at the pre-release event of the Pawan Kalyan-starrer Ustaad Bhagat Singh, prominent South Indian actor R Parthiban issued an apology for what he termed a 'slip of the tongue.' He clarified his stance, stating a "dislike for those who celebrate caste as a badge of honour." He further wrote, "I give you my word that this will never happen again, even by mistake. Once more, I offer my heartfelt apologies to everyone who was hurt by my words. Please put this behind you and continue to encourage me as you always have.