Kollywood actor Ranjith controversial take on honor killing. Actor-director Ranjith, known for his work in Tamil and Malayalam cinema since the early 90s, has sparked widespread outrage with his shocking statement defending honor killing.
Following a screening of his latest directorial, "Kavundampalayam," in Salem, Tamil Nadu on August 9th, Ranjith told the press that caste-based honor killing is not violence, but rather a manifestation of parental love. He compared it to reacting to a stolen bike, suggesting that parents who prioritize their children's well-being might resort to such acts out of "care."
This is not the first time Ranjith has made controversial remarks. He previously made offensive comments about women who wear short clothes and dance in public. His film "Kavundampalayam" itself tackles sensitive themes like caste-based violence and parental control, with the trailer featuring a dialogue that promotes the objectification of women.
The internet erupted in condemnation of Ranjith's shocking defense of honor killing, a crime that has tragically claimed countless lives. Users on X (formerly Twitter) expressed shock and disgust, calling out his "sick mentality" and "toxic mindset" that promotes violence and undermines societal progress.
Many highlighted the irony of Ranjith's stance, given that his film itself explores the very issue of violence and control within families. They emphasized that his comments are not just ignorant but dangerous, contributing to a regressive narrative that justifies murder.
The widespread outrage highlights the critical need for awareness and condemnation of honor killing. Ranjith's statements are a stark reminder of the deeply rooted societal issues that continue to plague India. While freedom of speech is paramount, it must be exercised responsibly, avoiding the propagation of harmful ideologies that perpetuate violence and prejudice.