by R. Dinakaran
Emboldened by the Tamil Nadu Government’s caving in before Islamic fundamentalists, Christian fundamental organisations have now called for a ban on Maniratnam’s Kadal.
According to reports, several Christian organisations, including the Indian Christian Democratic Party (Christhuva Jananayaga Katchi), have said the film had objectionable scenes referring to Christianity and depicted Christians in bad light. They have reportedly met the Chennai City Police Commissioner.
They have warned that the protests would be intensified if “necessary action” (translated into deleting scenes) is not taken.
It remains to be seen if the Jayalalithaa Government uses the same “not enough police” argument to ban Kadal.
But Maniratnam is likely to be happy about the controversy. The movie has been ripped apart by critics and is doing badly. A round of controversy can only do good for the film.
Update: According to The Hindu, Mr Christumurthy, the founder of the party, the references to Jesus Christ implied that Satan had won.
He also said references to the blood of Jesus Christ were unacceptable and wanted the scene in which Christ’s photo is thrown down and smashed to be deleted.
According to The New Indian Express, the group met Police Commissioner S. George and pointed out six scenes that were “offensive to Christians”.
The group said if these scenes were not removed and the film allowed to continue in theatres, they would call on Christians across the State and create a mas stir — which could threaten the law and order situation.
Prominent Church and Christian leaders, however have remained silent and have not supported this claim.
Christudoss has asked that cases be registered against Maniratnam and the Censor Board.
Twitter: @dinakaran
