Kerala's Salute to Film Icons Motivates Telugu Cinema, States Minister Saji Cherian
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Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 21 (NationPress) Kerala has frequently been a pioneer in numerous initiatives, and a recent event is now serving as an inspiration for the Telugu film industry. The Andhra Pradesh government is preparing to celebrate its esteemed actors, mirroring the efforts of the Kerala government, stated Saji Cherian, Kerala’s Minister for Cinema and Culture.
In a conversation with IANS, Cherian revealed that it was his proposal to honor the legendary actresses who contributed to Malayalam cinema. This ambition was brought to life during the recently concluded International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK).
“It was a significant day for us as organizers, for the audience who reminisced about their beloved stars, and particularly for the actresses themselves. The event created tremendous joy for all participants, and its success has captured the attention of the film industry in Andhra Pradesh. They are now planning a similar tribute,” Cherian informed IANS.
The gathering, which took place last Sunday, revived the illustrious period of Malayalam cinema with a special segment aptly named ‘Marakkillorikkalum’ (Never Forgotten). Almost two dozen legendary actresses were honored during the occasion.
The esteemed stars included K.R. Vijaya, T.R. Omana, Vidhubala, Bhavani (Lisa), Shobha (Chembarathi), Hema Chaudhary, Kanakadurga, Reena, Shanthi Krishna, Sreelatha Namboothiri, Surekha, Jalaja, Menaka, Anupama Mohan, Santha Kumari, Mallika Sukumaran, Sachu (Saraswathi), Usha Kumari, Vinodhini, Rajasree (Gracy), Vanchiyoor Radha, and Vanitha Krishna Chandran.
Cherian remarked, “We showcased iconic roles from selected films for each actress on screen. The feedback was overwhelming, and we received extensive appreciation for the event.”
At 59, Cherian, a self-proclaimed film aficionado, was visibly delighted to see his favorite stars of the past being celebrated.
During the event on Sunday, at the 29th International Film Festival of Kerala, while addressing the celebration of veteran female actors from the Malayalam Film Industry, Cherian stated that the Kerala government has also taken steps to implement legislation guaranteeing safe workplaces for women, including in the film sector.
