Banning 19 movies in IFFK that backfired

Great literary works and films have played a major role in awakening the human consciousness in people all over the world. Literary works are enjoyed by those who are at the top of society in terms of literacy. However, films can be enjoyed by both the illiterate and the literate. Both these media have the potential to influence the outlook of society and bring about positive changes in individuals and society. That is why the ruling class views these media with fear and sometimes tries to ban them, labelling them as harmful. Such a ban only helps in bringing more attention to those works.

Tolstoy's novel "Resurrection", banned by the Tsar in Russia, was read secretly by people in groups at night by candlelight. Prominent critics have assessed Salman Rushdie's book "The Satanic Verses" as of low quality in terms of literary value. However, it became one of the best-selling books in the world because it was banned by a religious leader of Iran. Rulers who understand the reality that bans often backfire generally adopt a more liberal approach to literary and film works. However, those who lack political mental breadth sometimes wield the rusty weapon of bans.

The Centre has also shown such a move by denying permission to 19 films at the Kerala International Film Festival. Films screened at film festivals are not seen by the general public. Therefore, the commonly held argument that such films send the wrong message to society does not hold water. Film festivals should be viewed in their spirit. Imposing such restrictions and bans there should be protested and opposed. At the same time, Kerala's decision to screen all films, ignoring the ban, should be assessed as a strong protest and a constructive response against the dictatorial action of the ban. The Culture Department gave permission to the Chalachitra Academy to screen all the films based on the suggestion of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

CPM National General Secretary M.A. Baby had said that the central government's action of not granting permission to the films applied for by Kerala was an attempt to sabotage the festival. Prominent director Adoor Gopalakrishnan had said that denying permission to films based on names was foolish. Meanwhile, the Centre has explained that the delay in applying by the Chalachitra Academy is what led to the delay in the screening permission of some films. Since the 19 films that were denied permission were recognised and well-received all over the world, denying the delegates the right to watch these films is not a good move in any way. The central government's action has created an extraordinary crisis in the IFFK, which has been running well for three decades. The Kerala government's action in responding to it in the best possible way is commendable.