Trouble for Anuraj Manohar’s new film? Forest dept issues notice over Pamba videography

Pathanamthitta, Kerala: Kerala Forest Department has issued a notice to Malayalam film director Anuraj Manohar, directing him to appear for interrogation in connection with the alleged videography of the Sabarimala Makaravilakku celebration at Pamba, officials said on Sunday.

A case has been registered against the filmmaker for allegedly conducting videography inside a forest area without obtaining permission from the competent authority, an officer stated.

Officials at the Goodarical Forest Range Office said Manohar has been asked to appear for questioning on February 11 as part of the investigation.

Manohar is facing investigation for videography carried out at the Pamba forest area on the day of the Makaravilakku festival last month.

Though he had approached the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) seeking permission for videography at Sabarimala Sannidhanam, the request was denied.

Following information about videography without permission, the TDB Vigilance and Security Wing conducted a preliminary inquiry and interrogated Manohar.

The probe found that the director had carried out videography at Pamba without any authorisation, an official said.

Following the probe by the TDB team, the Forest Department registered a case and initiated further investigation.

Manohar has directed hit films including 'Narivetta' and 'Ishq'. PTI