On Thursday, actor Darshan's family and legal team visited him at Ballari prison, but what caught social media's attention was not the visit itself, but a viral video allegedly showing the actor making an obscene gesture.
Multiple media outlets shared footage of Darshan reportedly flashing his middle finger as he walked from his cell, sparking widespread reactions on social platforms.
Darshan's wife, Vijayalakshmi, his brother Dinakar, and two lawyers visited him in the morning, with the family allotted 30 minutes to meet.
Darshan also attended a video conference related to his case, while his lawyers later discussed the chargesheet for about half an hour in the evening.
As media captured Darshan's movements between his cell and the visitors' area, the alleged gesture was picked up by cameras and quickly spread online.
The video has drawn mixed reactions, with some posts supporting Darshan and others criticizing him. During the visit, Vijayalakshmi reportedly handed him dry fruits and bakery items.
Darshan has been in judicial custody for over two months, facing charges in connection with the murder of Renukaswami.
He was initially held at Bengaluru's Parappana Agrahara prison but was transferred to Ballari prison on August 29 after a controversy erupted over photos of him drinking coffee, smoking, and making a video call from prison. This led to a reshuffling of prison staff and Darshan's transfer to Ballari.
