Kerala Film Awards Criticised for Naming Vedan Best Lyricist

Critics say the jury led by Prakash Raj defied the state's zero‑tolerance pledge on offenders.

Overview

Didi Damodaran called the decision an injustice in a Facebook post and urged the jury to apologise to the women of Kerala.
Rapper Hirandas Murali, known as Vedan, won Best Lyricist for the song Kuthanthram (Sweat-Stitched Shirt) from Manjummel Boys.
The jury commended the lyrics for conveying the pain and resilience of marginalised lives through authentic, unpolished imagery.
Women’s groups questioned the award, citing the government’s Film Conclave commitment to avoid protecting those accused of crimes against women.
Vedan faces criminal cases, including a rape charge, with courts recently easing his anticipatory bail conditions, and no change to the award has been announced.