Was sexual assault accused Vijay Babu's film Home snubbed at 52nd Kerala State Film Awards?
India Today
Home did not win in any categories at the 52nd Kerala State Film Awards. Film's actor Indrans and director Rojin Thomas feel the film was snubbed at the awards ceremony as it was bankrolled by Vijay Babu, who is accused in a sexual assault case.
Malayalam actor Vijay Babu is absconding after allegations of sexual assault and rape. But, a film that he bankrolled in 2021, has sparked controversy. It has raised questions about the moral parameters used to judge a movie differently that involves a sexual assault accused.
The controversy began when the Kerala government announced the recipients of the 52nd Kerala State Film Awards on May 26. One of the front-runners for the awards was a popular movie - Home, starring veteran actors Indrans and Manju Pillai, produced by Vijay Babu.
A row has erupted over Home failing to bring a single award home. Its crew wondered whether the sexual assault case slapped against its producer Vijay Babu was the reason for denying it the much-deserved honour.
The much-loved Home did not bag any award in any category despite making a credible impact in the fields of direction, cinematography and acting. Indrans was touted to win the Best Actor award for his portrayal of Oliver Twist.
“Those who watched the film appreciated it. Maybe the jury would not have seen the film," said Indrans to a Malayalam channel. The veteran actor was the recipient of the Best Actor award in 2018.
“Is it good to punish all members in a family, if a member has done a wrong? Ok, Vijay Babu is accused, what will happen if he is exonerated? Will the film be then considered, no?” said Indrans, questioning the norms used to judge the movie.
Rojin Thomas, the director of Home, said the film needed to be viewed as the product of a team. Had that (Vijay Babu case) been a factor, that would have been unfortunate, he said.
