Kerala's Cinematic Transition: Resul Pookutty Takes Charge Amid Controversy

Kerala's Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cheriyan addressed recent allegations surrounding the removal of actor Prem Kumar as the chairman of the State Chalachitra Academy. Responding to reports, Cheriyan affirmed that Kumar was not ousted for political comments but had simply completed his tenure.

The government recently appointed Oscar-winning sound designer Resul Pookutty as the new chairman, a decision that sparked a whirlwind of speculation regarding its motivation. Despite criticism on social media depicting the move as politically driven, Cheriyan maintains that Kumar, an interim chairperson, was a known Left sympathizer who served the Academy notably well.

Cheriyan emphasized the government's prerogative in selecting new office-bearers and refuted claims of Kumar's uninformed removal, asserting the responsibility lies with the Academy. The reshuffle also installed actress Kuku Parameswaran as the vice-chairperson alongside Pookutty, marking a new chapter in the Academy's leadership.