Actor Siddharth on Tuesday issued a public apology after facing heat for his "rude joke" that he wrote in response to a tweet by badminton player Saina Nehwal.

In an apology letter posted on Twitter, Siddharth wrote,"Dear Saina, I want to apologise to you for my rude joke that I wrote as a response to a tweet of yours a few days ago. I may disagree with you on many things, but even my disappointment or anger when I read your tweet, cannot justify my tone and words. I know I have more grace in me than that. As for the jokeif a joke needs to be explained, then it wasn't a very good joke to begin with. Sorry about a joke that didn't land."

"I, however, must insist my word play and humour had none of the malicious intent that so many people from all quarters have attributed to it. I am a staunch feminist ally and I assure there was no gender implied in my tweet and certainly no intent to attack you as a woman. I hope we can put this behind us and that you will accept my letter. You will always be my Champion. Honestly, Siddharth," it added.

(With inputs from agencies)