My term ended, nothing more to it: Prem Kumar on being replaced at Chalachitra Academy

As a new team assumes charge of the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy, outgoing interim Chairman and actor Prem Kumar clarified on Saturday that there was nothing unusual about the transition since his tenure had come to an end.

"It's the state government’s prerogative to appoint a new team as my term ended. No one needs to have any other thoughts that I was moved out because I had made an opinion. I am happy that I was able to do my job well," Prem Kumar said.

Prem Kumar had earlier voiced support for the protesting ASHA workers, which reportedly displeased the state government and led to speculation that his exit was linked to his stance. However, speaking to IANS, Culture and Films Minister Saji Cherian clarified that the Academy’s governing team serves a fixed term of three years.

"The new team has been constituted with Oscar award winner Resul Pookutty as the new Chairman. There is nothing to find fault with Prem Kumar, as since his term ended, and it's quite natural to bring in a new team... that’s the practice, and there is nothing else," Cherian explained. He further noted that the new panel faces an important task ahead as it will oversee the organisation of the upcoming International Film Festival of Kerala, the state’s flagship film event.

Filmmaker Kukku Parameswaran has been appointed as the Vice Chairperson, while a 26-member governing body has been formed, including well-known figures such as Amal Neerad, Syam Pushkaran, Nikhila Vimal, Sitara Krishnakumar, Sudheer Karamana, and B Ragesh. Resul Pookutty’s appointment follows the resignation of director Ranjith, who stepped down amid controversy surrounding the Hema Committee report on the Malayalam film industry.

At the time of Ranjith’s resignation, Prem Kumar, who was serving as Vice Chairman, had taken temporary charge of the Academy. Expressing his gratitude upon taking over, Pookutty said he was proud to be the first person from the technical side to lead the Academy.

"It’s a big responsibility and a challenge, and in Kerala, the society is an argumentative one. With the passing of time, changes are taking place everywhere, and it will happen here also. I will soon get in touch with the outgoing interim Chairman," he added.
(With IANS Inputs)