THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Writer and social commentator N. S. Madhavan has criticised the rightwing intolerance towards Manju Warrier for accepting the role of Madhavikutty in her biopic, Aami, by filmmaker Kamal. “By the same logic, actors who play Hitler, Mussolini or Godse also deserve to be haunted. To make Manju Warrier say that she visits temple twice every day is a sad day for art. As a professional ideally she should have slugged it out. But unfortunately other professionals in the field are not rallying around her, without realising that ground under their feet is being cut”, said Madhavan.
It’s not her politics that prompted Manju to accept the role. Manju had to clarify this on Facebook as a section of social media activists seemed to think the opposite, that like Kamal she is a lefty and trenchant critic of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. They advised her not to collaborate with Kamal(udeen) because he is “anti-India” and not be on the cast, which even Vidya Balan could not appreciate. Sangh Parivar’s list of persona non grata includes Kamal, which was why BJP general secretary A. N. Radhakrishnan “exiled” him to Pakistan.
Is it because dyed-in-the wool right-wingers cannot tolerate a gifted actor like Manju being on the same page with an independent-minded director? The campaign on FB became such a menace that Manju decided enough is enough. She said on FB post: “I need to come clear because this proposed film has evoked heated debates. Do not link me to political debates surrounding Kamal sir. To me he is Guru. His films like “Ee puzhayum kadannu”, “Krishnagudi Oru Pranayakalathu” are among my most fortunate in the film career. For me, it is not his politics but respect for the artist in him and the enthusiasm to work him with after 20 years.
“Like anyone born in Bharat, my politics is my country. I participate in the deeparadhana offering twice daily. Likewise I offer pranam in front masjids and churches. “Madhavikutty, the writer, is a legend. I cherish the opportunity, like any other artiste, to portray her. Please appreciate Aami, the film, and me the actor. Cinema is an art form. Those engaged in it have their respective ideological positions and politics. They forget such things and immerse themselves in the creation of good cinema. This applies to Aami also. “We need to distinguish real motives of those who read lend non-existent attributes to the film. “I am sure this film will be a pride of Malayalis and be an iconic offering to world cinema. Therefore, dear friends, please dump sectarian debates in my name and join hands for a good film. My strength in undertaking this great role is your support. Stay with me”.
