Thiruvananthapuram
The Kerala State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has taken action against Kalamandalam Satyabhama junior, a senior Mohiniyattam dancer, for her alleged racist remarks towards a fellow artist on a social media platform. SHRC member V K Beena Kumari directed the Thrissur district police chief and the Secretary for Culture to investigate the matter and submit a report within 15 days. The Commission initiated the case based on media reports and a complaint filed by human rights activist Guinness Madasamy.
Satyabhama’s comments sparked controversy after a video of her remarks went viral on social media. Noted Mohiniyattam dancer Dr RLV Ramakrishnan accused her of directing the remarks at him and threatened legal action. Her statements were widely criticized on social media, and political figures, including ministers and the Leader of the Opposition, condemned her remarks.
Additionally, Sreekumaran Thampi, a renowned figure in Malayalam cinema, stated that Satyabhama junior was not worthy of carrying the name ‘Kalamandalam Satyabhama,’ which belonged to a respected Mohiniyattam guru. Meanwhile, actor-politician Suresh Gopi invited Ramakrishnan to perform at a temple ritual on March 28, and the invitation was accepted. In her remarks, Satyabhama had commented on the appearance of male Mohiniyattam performers but did not specify anyone in particular.
