Thiruvananthapuram: Veteran filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan on Monday reiterated the views he expressed at the state film conclave, saying that all newcomers to the film industry should undergo proper training before making a film.

He emphasised that the film industry is evolving rapidly with the introduction of new technologies. "Everyone entering the film industry must undergo proper training. There has to be a certain standard of quality, and training will help ensure that," he told the media, clarifying the remarks he made on Sunday.

While addressing the film conclave in Thiruvananthapuram, Adoor criticised the Kerala State Film Development Corporation (KSFDC) for providing ₹1.5 crore in funding to aspiring filmmakers from SC/ST communities. He stated that such individuals should first undergo proper training by experts before receiving financial support.

He dismissed allegations that his remarks were targeted against members of the SC/ST community or women, clarifying that his comments applied to all newcomers entering the film industry. "Everyone stepping into the industry should undergo training," he reiterated.

The filmmaker also pointed out that the government's current funding model is based on the standards set a few years back, and with ₹1.5 crore, at least three quality films could be produced today. "The government is now giving funds to individuals who have no experience in filmmaking. A three-month training programme could make a significant difference. The films should have the quality, and the training could help," he said.

He further added that his remarks were misinterpreted. "I've been studying cinema for years, and I'm still learning," he said, clarifying that his comments were not meant to emphasise the need for proper training.

He also took the opportunity to criticise singer Pushpavati for interrupting his speech during the conclave, saying that she should first understand his remarks before staging a protest. "The person who protested has no experience in filmmaking. She should first understand what I am saying before staging a protest. This is nothing more than a publicity stunt," he said.

When asked about the case registered against him over his remarks, he responded : "Let them file the complaint." He added that he was surprised by the backlash, saying, "I don’t understand why there’s so much negativity around what I said."