Kerala Youth Festival Drops Controversial Play After Hindu Groups Protest Alleged Insults to Mythology

The play Veeranatyam, which recently sparked strong protests from several Hindu organisations for allegedly insulting Hindu mythology, has been withdrawn from the upcoming Kerala State School Youth Festival. The performance had earlier won first place at the Malappuram Revenue District School Youth Festival.

The controversy escalated when members of the Hindu Aikya Vedi met with the management of Kottoor AKM Higher Secondary School — the institution that staged the play. The organisation claimed that the school authorities assured disciplinary action against Shaukat, the teacher who directed the play, and agreed to issue a public apology to the Hindu community.

School Responds, Confirms New Play for State Festival

Following the discussions, the school confirmed that students who qualified for the state-level competition will now present an entirely different play.

Kottoor AKM HSS headmistress Saibunissa said:
“The Hindu Aikya Vedi representatives approached us with concerns about the content. We expressed regret if the performance hurt religious sentiments. We have sought an explanation from the teacher who directed it. To ensure the students do not lose their opportunity, we have assigned another teacher to prepare a new play.”

Why the Protests?

Veeranatyam explored themes surrounding the subjugation of women, drawing references from portions of the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Hindu organisations alleged that the play used vulgar language and mocked sacred beliefs, traditions, and cultural symbols, prompting widespread condemnation.

Right-wing groups argued that such interpretations, particularly in a school-level artistic performance, were disrespectful and unacceptable.

The decision to replace the play aims to diffuse tensions while ensuring the participating students retain their chance to compete at the state level.