Ahead of the special screening of the upcoming documentary Thiruparankundram Files, a private venue in Chennai cancelled the event after raising concerns about the film's politics and its alleged objections and threats.
Scheduled to be screened at Le Magic Lantern in Nungambakkam, the documentary screening was cancelled after organisers claimed that two people claiming to represent the Hindu Munnani contacted the venue management and issued threats. While the management revealed that there were no issues until Tuesday morning, the subsequent threats prompted them to take a decision on declining to host the screening.
The makers of the documentary noted that they had obtained prior permission from police before the screening in Chennai despite which the event was cancelled by the venue. They had also argued how they had organised similar screenings in and around Tamil Nadu which was watched by many groups of people. Former MLAs Karunas and Thamimun Ansari were also invited to the event, along with actor Sathyaraj. The politicians also mentioned how the documentary has been available on platforms like YouTube for a long time and asserted that it does not promote religious hatred or has content that targets any religion.
The documentary revolves around the sensitive and historically disputed matter concerning the lighting of the Deepam lamp atop a stone pillar situated near a Dargah on Thiruparankundram hill, a site jointly claimed by both Hindu and Muslim communities. The film's portrayal of the historical and religious claims surrounding this issue has triggered political backlash. The organisers said they sought police protection but were informed that approval from higher authorities would be required. Police personnel were deployed outside the venue as supporters and invitees gathered despite the cancellation.
No official response was immediately available from the Tamil Nadu government or the police regarding the organisers' allegations but Karunaas noted that he would take the issue to the Minister for Information and Publicity and to CM Vijay, urging them to take action against those politicising the issue.
With reports from ANI