Sreekumaran Thampi Defends Adoor Gopalakrishnan Amid Funding Controversy

Renowned Malayalam poet and filmmaker Sreekumaran Thampi has come to the defense of acclaimed director Adoor Gopalakrishnan following a backlash over his recent statements on government funding for filmmakers from marginalized communities.

Thampi supported Gopalakrishnan's assertion that funds should be allocated after recipients undergo necessary training in filmmaking. He stated that public money should not be handed out without ensuring proper qualifications, questioning the criticism aimed at one of the world's greatest filmmakers. Thampi noted that Gopalakrishnan did not target any specific group but emphasized the importance of having adequate knowledge in cinema before receiving financial support.

Adding to the discourse, Thampi addressed the criticism from playback singer Pushpavati, who disrupted Gopalakrishnan during a film conclave. Thampi labeled her interruption as ignorant, suggesting she could have waited to voice her opinion. Pushpavati later expressed respect for Thampi and refrained from further comment. The controversy initially erupted from suggestions by Gopalakrishnan that funding should follow technical training to ensure effective use of resources.

(With inputs from agencies.)