Thiruvananthapuram: Veteran Malayalam poet and filmmaker Sreekumaran Thampi has voiced support for acclaimed director Adoor Gopalakrishnan, whose recent comments on public funding for filmmakers from marginalised communities have stirred a controversy.

Addressing reporters in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday, Thampi defended Gopalakrishnan’s remarks and criticised the backlash against the Dadasaheb Phalke awardee, reports PTI. He argued that the director merely pointed out the need for evaluating the eligibility and skills of aspiring filmmakers before disbursing government funds.

“What is wrong with suggesting that applicants be given proper training before receiving ₹1.5 crore of public money?” Thampi asked, referring to the Kerala government’s initiative to promote filmmakers from underrepresented groups. He added that Gopalakrishnan did not target any specific community and that his comments were being misinterpreted. “Camera is not a toy,” Thampi stated, emphasising the need for filmmaking knowledge.

Thampi also criticised playback singer Pushpavati, who interrupted Gopalakrishnan’s speech at a state-sponsored film conclave on Sunday. He termed the disruption “ignorant” and said she should have waited until he finished speaking. When asked about her, Thampi claimed he was unfamiliar with the singer, despite having met her once. “She came to take a selfie with me, but I still don’t know who she is,” he said.

Pushpavati, when approached for comment, expressed respect for Thampi and declined to respond further. Gopalakrishnan had earlier clarified that his aim was not to disparage anyone, but to ensure that new filmmakers are adequately trained before receiving financial support from the Kerala State Film Development Corporation (KSFDC).