Kerala opposition leader V D Satheesan, in a Facebook post on Sunday, expressed anger over superstar Mammootty not being conferred a Padma award. From among the entertainers, Mithun Chakraborty and Telegu superstar Chiranjeevi were given the Padma awards-- Chakraborty was conferred with Padma Bhushan and Chiranjeevi, Padma Vibhushan.
He wrote that the true essence of these awards is achieved when they are conferred upon the most deserving personalities. He listed eminent personalities in various fields like writers T Padmanabhan, M K Sanu, Sara Joseph, singer Sujatha Mohan, and others who still haven't been given the Padma awards.
Referring to the national-award-winning actor, he wrote, “The Amaram actor received the Padma Shri in 1998 and he is still standing there even after a quarter-century. The acting prowess and film career of Mammootty needs no explanation.” Mammootty, in his latest film, portrayed a closeted gay man, whose wife files for divorce on the basis of cruelty.
He also wrote that if any Indian actor is considered for Padma Bhushan or Padma Vibhushan, Mammootty should be the first name on the list and that there could be no doubt about that choice.
Veteran BJP leader O Rajagopal and royal family member Aswathi Thirunal Gouri Lakshmi Bayi were among those who have been chosen for the top honours from Kerala this year, PTI reported.
