V.K. Sreeraman regrets Pulikali remarks, calls them immature
Actor-writer V.K. Sreeraman apologized for earlier Pulikali comments, acknowledging they were inappropriate and distressing to artistes. The backlash from Thrissur and Pulikali committees followed, as the festival prepares for Onam celebrations and potential Guinness World Records efforts.
Key takeaways
- V.K. Sreeraman publicly apologised for his Pulikali remarks, calling his earlier stance immature.
- The remarks triggered backlash in Thrissur from Pulikali troupes and cultural activists seeking an apology.
- Organising committees described the comments as body-shaming and noted an impact on artistes’ morale ahead of Onam.
What Happened
Actor and writer V.K. Sreeraman issued a public apology for previous remarks about Pulikali, saying his earlier opinion and wording were not mature and caused distress among Pulikali artistes and those involved in the Onam performance. He noted that responses on social media, both supportive and critical, prompted him to reconsider his stance. He cited a particular comment contrasting Thrissur Pulikali with Kasaragod Pulikali, which described Thrissur’s version as a “single-theme carnival” and questioned the martial-art aspects of Kasaragod’s form. Sreeraman said he understands his earlier expression was inappropriate and expressed a wish for artistes and organisers to enhance Pulikali’s aesthetic appeal.
The controversy began after his post described Pulikali as an “artistic distortion that makes one nauseous.” The remark drew sharp backlash in Thrissur, with troupes and cultural activists demanding an apology and accusing him of insulting artistes. Some committees called the remark body-shaming and said it affected artistes’ morale ahead of Onam celebrations. Officials from Pulikali organising groups in Thrissur and another committee urged the artist to withdraw the post and apologise.
As Thrissur prepares for its annual Pulikali festivities, the city is also pursuing efforts to take the festival to the Guinness World Records.
Why It Matters
The controversy highlights tensions between alternate views on a traditional performance and the responsibilities of public figures when commenting on cultural practices. The backlash from cultural groups underscores how public discourse can influence the morale of performers ahead of a major festival. The ongoing discussion around Pulikali’s presentation and its reception may affect how the festival is staged and promoted, including its visibility in record-making efforts.
Background
Pulikali is a traditional Onam performance in Kerala, with regional variations such as Thrissur and Kasaragod. Debate over its portrayal—whether it should emphasize body aesthetics, painted forms, or athletic aspects—has appeared in public discourse. Thrissur’s Pulikali is preparing for its annual events, with ambitions to gain broader recognition through Guinness World Records.
Key Facts
- V.K. Sreeraman expressed regret over his Pulikali remarks, stating his prior opinion was not mature and caused distress.
- His controversial post described Pulikali as an artistic distortion that made him nauseous.
- The backlash was strongest in Thrissur, where Pulikali troupes and cultural activists demanded an apology.
- Ayyanthole Desam Pulikali Organising Committee called the remarks body-shaming and said they affected artistes’ morale ahead of Onam.
- Sitaram Mill Desam Pulikali Organising Committee also demanded an apology.
- The controversy occurred as Thrissur was preparing for its Pulikali celebrations and pursuing Guinness World Records for the festival.
- The publication date of the report: August 20, 2026, 08:56 pm IST.
What Happens Next
The article notes ongoing debates and calls for apologies from the supporting committees, with no further confirmed statements from Sreeraman beyond his expressed regret. The festival’s planning and potential record-attempt efforts may continue to influence public dialogue around Pulikali’s presentation and reception.
Sources reviewed
Project Chintan independently synthesized and analyzed information cross-checked across the sources listed above.
Related stories
Attempt to set ablaze Tumari auditorium shocks theatre community
Former Chennai Police Commissioner sues YouTuber for defamation, seeks ₹1 crore
Tamil Nadu hikes archaeological budget to ₹10 crore
