Director Sathyan Anthikad believes he is patriotic, like most of us. According to him, the national anthem row in itself is an insult to the solemn nationalistic song.
Anthikad, who is awaiting the release of his upcoming movie Jomonte Suvisheshangal, was talking on the sideline of the 21st edition of International film festival here.
Talking to Onmanorama, Anthikad said, ''Our national anthem is something that we should be proud of and it should be respected. But patriotism shouldn't be forced upon. Nor should it be pitted against individual rights.
He further added, ''I just reached here today, so I am not sure what exactly is happening here in this regard. But as it's supreme court's order, such things can't be questioned. But the decision should have been taken after considering its practicality.''
On Monday, 11 people, including three journalists and a woman, were arrested by city police for allegedly disobeying the Supreme Court order on national anthem.