Revathy says she feels herself a Hindu believer for the first time
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In the aftermath of the grand consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22, members of Kerala's film fraternity have expressed a spectrum of opinions, showcasing the diversity of beliefs within the industry.
Malayalam filmmaker Amal Neerad, known for his thought-provoking works, shared a sepia-toned image of the Babri Masjid before its demolition in 1992. In a poignant statement, Neerad emphasized the importance of integrity, stating, "Our integrity sells for so little, but it is all that we really have. It is the very last inch of us. But within that inch, we are free."
Veteran actor-director Revathy, on the contrary, posted in favour of the Ram Temple and shared her personal sentiments as a Hindu. She reflected on the "unforgettable day" of witnessing the consecration and acknowledged the change it brought, noting, "maybe for the first time that we are 'believers'!!! Jai Shri Ram."
“Yesterday was an unforgettable day!!! I did not know there was this part of me that would feel the way it did when I saw Ram Lalla’s enticing face. Something stirred within me… It is strange that being born a Hindu we keep our beliefs to ourselves, try not to hurt other beliefs, we try to underplay… secular India is what we strongly feel and keep our religious beliefs personal. This is how it should be for all. The homecoming of Shri Ram has indeed changed things for many… we said it aloud, maybe for the first time that we are ‘believers’!!! Jai Shri Ram,” Revathy’s Instagram post read.
Neerad's perspective resonated with actor Shane Nigam, who, on the evening of January 22, shared a newspaper clipping featuring a speech by Dr. BR Ambedkar. The speech warned against placing creed above country, suggesting that it could jeopardize the nation's hard-earned independence.
The social media discourse also saw singer Vidhu Prathap expressing his stance on the Ayodhya Ram temple debate, emphasizing that religion should be a comfort, not a passion. Singers Sooraj Santhosh and Sithara Krishnakumar echoed their support through emoticons, aligning with Prathap's statement.
However, divergent opinions sparked controversy within the industry. Notably, Sooraj Santhosh faced cyber-attacks and legal consequences after criticizing renowned singer KS Chithra for her call to light lamps on the consecration day, overlooking the historical context of the Babri Masjid.
Even Kerala's beloved superstar Mohanlal faced cyber-attacks from right-wing supporters for not attending the consecration despite receiving an invitation. Many on social media expressed their dissatisfaction, with some declaring their intention to unfollow him and boycott his upcoming film with director Lio Jose Pellissery, titled "Malaikottai Vaaliban."
In a symbolic gesture on the morning of the consecration ceremony, several women actors and filmmakers, including Parvathy Thiruvothu, Rima Kallingal, Divya Prabha, Kani Kusruti, and directors Aashiq Abu, Jeo Baby, and Kamal KM, posted the preamble of the Indian Constitution on their social media pages, emphasizing the values enshrined in the foundational document.
