Malayalam technicians deny banning Dilip's films

Thiruvananthapuram, May 8 (IANS) The Malayalam Cine Technicians Association (MACTA) has only taken up a complaint against upcoming superstar Dileep, and has not banned his films, says MACTA chairman Vinayan.

The MACTA comprises 18 different sections of Malayalam film industry workers - right from drivers to directors.

Vinayan, who is also a veteran director, told the media that his association has forwarded a complaint to the Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes ( AMMA) from director Thulasidas that Dileep has backed out from a film after taking payment of Rs.4 million four years back.

'The media report that has surfaced that we have clamped a ban on all Dileep films is wrong. Instead, we have only taken up this complaint with AMMA,' said Vinayan.

Dileep is yet to react and preferred to wait till a reaction to this came from the AMMA.

Speaking to reporters, AMMA president Innocent said that the MACTA has written to it about this issue. He said: 'We will react to this in two days' time.'

Reports indicate that Dileep had informed Thulasidas, one of the leading directors, that he would work with him only after he came out with a successful film.

Thulasidas' last film 'College Kumaran', also starring Mohanlal, bombed at the box office.

The film industry in Kerala has, besides the MACRA, professional organisations to protect the interests of producers, stars, exhibitors. Skirmishes between these organisations are common, with issues like the latest one getting a lot of attention.

Last year the MACTA members went on a strike, demanding a pay hike for certain category of workers. The strike was called off after their demands were met.

The Dileep issue is certain to upset the relationship between various film organisations.