'Neerali' lensman was tricked into signing plea against Mohanlal

Thrissur: Ace cinematographer Santosh Thundiyil, who cranked the camera for Mohanlal's recent film 'Neerali', alleged that he had been tricked into signing a petition which called for keeping away superstar Mohanlal from the state awards function. Santosh, who was a state film awards committee member this year, had reacted after he learned that his name too was included in the petition.

“There was a proposal to improve the award function. I got a note on my WhatsApp account that it contained the said proposal. Mohanlal’s name was mentioned nowhere in that note. So I told them that I have no problem in submitting the proposals to the government. It was only later that I came to know that it was a move to keep away Mohanlal from the award function. Later, I realised that my name too was included in it. I don’t understand their politics or gimmicks. Mohanlal is an actor who is well known in the entire country. We must be proud that he is a Malayali. If he attends the award function, it would only make it more glorious,” said Thundiyil.

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He added that Mohanlal’s presence would be an honour for the award-winners as well. He said, “I have grown up watching the incredible talent of Mohanlal. I felt proud when I worked him, and it only enhanced when I came to know him personally.”

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Santosh further said that those who were behind the petition should realise that nothing can take away Mohanlal from the hearts of the Malayali audience. He added that it was unfair to hide facts when a proposal is sent.