Thilakan controversy: War of words continues

Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 23 (IANS) The war of words in the Malayalam film industry, involving veteran actor Thilakan, superstars Mammootty and Mohanlal and others, continues unabated.

Thilakan is currently facing the heat from various film workers' organisations, including the Association of Malayalam Movies Artistes (AMMA), for his utterances against some superstars and select directors.

He replied to a show-cause notice from the AMMA, saying he has done no wrong and the question of an apology does not arise.

Thilakan has been getting support from the Communist Party of India after a few legislators joined him on podium during public meetings in Kottayam and Ernakulam districts.

But the biggest cheer for him came Monday when veteran social critic Sukumar Azhikode lashed out at Mohanlal when he said the love scenes done by the superstar on screen have become unpalatable.

Azhikode also criticised Mohanlal for endorsing jewellery and found fault with him for coming to the defence of Mammootty.

Mohanlal told reporters here Tuesday that it should not be of concern to Azhikode if he was endorsing jewellery.

'I told him to leave me alone. Even Amitabh Bachchan endorses products. I see the statements from Azhikode as those made by an old man. He also advised (me) to settle the present controversy. I replied I have nothing to do on that and it has to be done by AMMA,' he said.

Thilakan has been asked to appear before the disciplinary committee of AMMA March 1.

'I am yet to decide on whether I should appear or not. Several people are trying to settle the issue and I am willing to discuss it on certain conditions, which I will make at an appropriate time,' he said.

Kerala Culture Minister M.A. Baby told reporters that there were a few film-based organisations and if all were willing, the government would intervene.