Film directors brought in as judges for drama and mimicry competitions at School Kalolsavam; minister convenes meeting

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A controversy has erupted over film directors serving as judges for drama and mimicry competitions at the State School Kalolsavam. Following the backlash, Education Minister V Sivankutty convened an urgent meeting with officials to discuss stricter criteria for appointing judges.

Director MA Nishad judged the drama competition, while filmmaker Sohan Seenulal, the son of a CPM Ernakulam district committee member, judged mimicry. Theatre artists expressed strong resentment over Nishad being appointed as a judge for the drama competition. Though Nishad was initially assigned to judge today's HS-level drama competition, reports suggest he has been replaced to avoid potential protests.

There were also complaints about lower remuneration for judges of competitions involving tribal and indigenous art forms compared to others. This issue will also be reviewed in the minister's meeting.

Further, the HS Boys’ Mappilapattu (traditional Muslim folk song) competition saw disputes over the qualifications of the judges. Teachers and parents alleged that the judges lacked sufficient expertise and knowledge of the technical aspects of Mappilapattu. Out of 14 participants, 7 received A grades, and 7 received B grades. This grading drew criticism from Mappilapattu musicians and lyricists present at the venue.