Thiruvananthapuram: Recent news reports have brought to light an incriminating audio recording that alleges the involvement of Kerala Chalachitra Academy Chairman Ranjith in influencing the state film award decision. The audio content, publicly released, captures a conversation between jury member Nemom Pushparaj and director Vinayan.
In the audio exchange, Nemom Pushparaj discloses that director Ranjith dismissed the movie ‘Pathonpatham Noottandu’ as subpar and advocated for its exclusion from award consideration. Pushparaj stated, “Ranjith interfered unnecessarily. He told me not to bother the final jury by merely considering a rubbish movie like ‘Pathonpatham Noottandu’. I asked, ‘Why not consider?’ and mentioned that various aspects should be taken into account, such as the film’s art direction, makeup, costume, and choreography. When I said this, the other members of the jury were also present. I’m sure Ranjith didn’t appreciate that. I felt deeply insulted by Ranjith’s words. With Ranjith in the chairman’s position, no one receives fair judgment in award decisions.”
On August 4, following a complaint filed by Director Vinayan, the Chief Minister initiated an investigation into the allegations against Ranjith. The latest audio clip has been presented as crucial evidence in Vinayan’s complaint. Vinayan has also included a recording of singer Jency Gregory’s conversation with a journalist as part of his complaint.
In the recorded conversation, Pushparaj is heard telling Vinayan that individuals on Ranjith’s list of adversaries would not receive any awards. He further revealed that the Chalachithra Academy chairman attempted to block three awards bestowed upon ‘Pathonpatham Noottandu’. Pushparaj’s statement in the audio suggests, “If Ranjith has enmity with someone, he will not allow the jury to select their movies for awards. I am really disappointed that such activities happen when a Communist government is in power.”
‘Pathonpatham Nootandu’ secured three accolades—best male singer, best female singer, and best dubbing artist—in the state film awards announced on July 21. Allegations have surfaced that Ranjith approached the award jury to reconsider this decision, but the jury rebuffed his requests.
Meanwhile, Kerala’s Minister of Culture, Saji Cherian, has reversed his initial stance regarding the accusation against Ranjith. While initially refuting allegations of Ranjith’s interference in the award decision, Minister Cherian changed his position following intervention from CPI party leaders and the Chief Minister’s initiation of an inquiry.
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