In a strong assertion of artistic freedom, Kerala Minister for Cultural Affairs Saji Cherian has announced that the 19 films denied screening permission by the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting will be shown at the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK). The minister said he has directed the Kerala State Film Academy to proceed with the screenings, rejecting what he described as the Centre’s anti-democratic approach.
Calling the move an attack on Kerala’s progressive cultural legacy, the minister said the state would not accept attempts to dilute the tradition and inclusive spirit of IFFK. “We will continue to take a firm stand against assaults on creative expression,” Minister said.
The films, including four from the Palestine package, are internationally acclaimed and have been widely appreciated by audiences across the world, the minister noted. Denying festival delegates the right to view these works is unacceptable, especially since the films were already listed in the festival schedule and catalogue and had been widely publicised.
Among the titles denied exemption certificates are Riverstone, Battleship Potemkin, Once Upon a Time in Gaza, Palestine 36, Yes, Timbuktu, and the Spanish film Beef. Usually, films at IFFK are screened with exemption certificates issued by the Union Information and Broadcasting Ministry.
The Centre’s decision has triggered sharp criticism from political and cultural circles. CPI(M) General Secretary M.A. Baby and noted filmmakers Adoor Gopalakrishnan and Kamal termed it an attempt to undermine the festival. Filmmaker T.V. Chandran recalled that when a similar situation arose in Kolkata, the West Bengal government led by Mamata Banerjee allowed the screenings, and urged the Kerala government to show similar resolve.
With the state standing firm, the controversy has turned IFFK into a renewed battleground over freedom of expression and cultural autonomy.
