Alappuzha (Kerala): CPM legislator U Prathibha has expressed concern over what she described as an increasing obsession with cinema celebrities, particularly the practice of inviting "half-dressed film stars" to inaugurate commercial events.

While speaking at the concluding session of the 34th anniversary celebrations of the Eruva Nalanda Arts and Cultural Forum Library in Kayamkulam on Wednesday, the MLA stressed the need for modest attire at public functions.

"People are bringing half-dressed film stars for shop inaugurations. Our society seems to have developed a sort of madness towards cinema actors. I don't understand why this happens," she said.
Describing the trend as part of a "new culture”, the Kayamkulam MLA commented on the increasing public excitement surrounding such appearances.

"When half-dressed film stars come for inaugurations, everyone rushes to see them. This needs to change. We should at least insist that they come decently dressed," she added.

She clarified that her remarks should not be seen as an attempt to impose restrictions on personal freedom.

"What I said is about decency in attire. We live in a country where everyone has the freedom to dress as they wish — to wear or not to wear certain clothes. We have no right to question that," she explained.

However, Prathibha noted that there should be a certain standard of decorum in public spaces.

In a veiled attack, the MLA also criticised the popular reality show Bigg Boss, led by actor Mohanlal, without mentioning the channel or the programme by name.

“There is a covert show airing in Kerala in the evenings. While others are asleep, people watch it secretly. They comment on whether someone’s trousers are tight or whether their top is tight. There are many such shows happening in our state. This show is hosted by an immortal actor, a very formidable one. He has even received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award,” said MLA Prathibha.
 

Another CPM MLA, P P Chitharanjan, also made offensive remarks about differently-abled individuals during a session in the Assembly on Thursday, provoking strong criticism from the opposition Congress-led UDF. 

In a mocking tone directed at the UDF lawmakers, the MLA from Alappuzha, likened their situation to that of a man without both hands struggling when an ant crawls on him.

This incident occurred just a day after Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan sparked controversy by making a disparaging remark about the short stature of an Opposition MLA in the Assembly.
(With PTI inputs)