Dubai: Actor and Lok Sabha MP Suresh Gopi has responded to recent criticism surrounding a video in which he was seen washing his hands before lighting a ceremonial lamp and cutting a cake.

Speaking at a press conference in Dubai, Gopi dismissed the controversy, asserting that personal hygiene practices should not be politicised or misinterpreted.

“I washed my hands before lighting the lamp. I didn’t pour water into anyone’s hands. My hands were clean. How could that possibly harm anyone?” he said.

The controversy had sparked online discussions, with some interpreting the act as disrespectful. Gopi, however, clarified that it was purely a matter of cleanliness and personal discipline.

"I don’t usually enter the inner sanctum pathways (chuttambalam) in many temples. That’s because elders have taught me how temples are cleaned and maintained. So, in certain temples, I avoid those areas. I’m fully aware of where I’ve come into contact before entering a temple. Those who question whether that really matters may have other intentions. We can’t live constantly responding to such things. I will continue to live the way my parents raised me," said Suresh Gopi.

He further elaborated that even during COVID-19, people were taught to avoid unnecessary contact like handshakes and hugs unless necessary.

“If it’s a biological need, we comply. But if it’s a spiritual need, we are told not to... That’s wrong,” he stated.

Speaking about washing his hands before cutting the cake, Gopi said, “Yes, I washed my hands before cutting the cake. I didn’t touch anyone else’s food or hands. In previous events, too, like for Garudan and Paappan, I was the one who cut and distributed the cake. I decide how I maintain my hygiene; otherwise, people will say I’m ignoring others’ health.”

Recounting another incident on the release day of his film JSK, Gopi said he attended a gajapooja (elephant worship) in Thrissur before rushing to the first show of the film.

"The day before yesterday was the release day of JSK. I had gone to Thrissur for a gajapooja and elephant feeding ceremony. Elephant feeding only takes place after the gajapooja, and the entire process takes about one and a half to two hours. While I was there, I received a call from the theatre asking me to attend the first show.

There was a huge crowd at the venue. I’m aware that no one is supposed to touch the priest conducting the gajapooja. I moved aside some of the people standing in front and quietly stood in a corner to participate in the ritual.

During the event, one of the mahouts pointed to an elephant and mentioned it had been brought from Guruvayur. I suddenly felt a strong urge to touch it. And before I did, I made sure to wash my hands thoroughly," Suresh Gopi explained.