‘We’ve commitments too’: Adoor Gopalakrishnan miffed as Minister PC Vishnunadh arrives 2 hrs late
Thiruvananthapuram: Acclaimed filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan expressed his strong displeasure after Cultural Affairs Minister P C Vishnunadh arrived over two hours late for an event organised by the Film Society Association.
The function, scheduled to begin at 2 pm, was delayed remarkably as the Minister failed to show up on time. Adoor Gopalakrishnan waited on stage without delivering his speech until the Minister arrived, after which he voiced his dissatisfaction publicly during his address.
Recalling a past incident, Adoor noted that a former Cultural Affairs Minister had once kept him waiting for an hour and a half for a meeting, prompting him to decide against attending events featuring ministers. “Just like Ministers have pressing engagements, others have their own commitments as well,” he added.
During his address, he also expressed deep concern over the management of the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK).
“IFFK has not made a mark internationally so far. It requires an international jury, not just anyone brought in to fill the slots. The government has not appointed anyone accountable to oversee the film festival,” Adoor said.
“Someone responsible must lead as the Chairman. A person of knowledge and experience should be appointed to head the Academy; otherwise, it will bring disrepute. Looking at the IFFK website is distressing. The primary issue is that it is being led by people who lack genuine interest,” Adoor criticised.
Adoor Gopalakrishnan delivered these remarks in the presence of the Minister on stage. He mentioned during his speech that he had considered leaving after waiting for two hours, but chose to stay to avoid causing further unpleasantness.
Speaking to the media following the event, Adoor stated that he had discussed all the issues with the Minister. He added that he had suggested a name for the post of Chalachitra Academy Chairman, though he declined to reveal the identity.