The decision to award rapper Hirandas Murali (30), better known by his stage name Vedan, best lyricist at the 55th Kerala State Film Awards on 3rd November has sparked a severe backlash and drawn condemnation. The anti-Hindu and controversial actor Prakash Raj presided over the award jury.

Vedan, who gained the recognition for Manjummel Boys “Kuthanthram” song, has encountered many charges of rape and sexual abuse. The victim, a former medical student asserted financial exploitation and several assaults in Kochi and Kozhikode. Now, many have questioned the morality and legitimacy of the state awards in light of the developments, particularly as candidates used to be excluded earlier because of pending legal proceedings.

The committee could not “pretend not to see the energy and struggle

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