Kochi/Alappuzha: Actor Unni Mukundan has strongly reacted to the controversial Vishu poster released by Meher Mandi & Grills in Cherthala, owned by Mohammed Shemir, Arshad and associates, which depicted Bhagwan Krishna alongside a Biriyani platter with meat, including fried chicken placed prominently. The actor expressed sharp disapproval of the imagery, stating that it crossed the limits of acceptable representation of religious symbols.
Taking to Instagram, Unni Mukundan wrote, “There is a limit to everything! Please learn to respect the feelings of believers. I feel completely disgusted after seeing this”. His response quickly gained traction on social media, sparking widespread discussion and reactions. Responding to a comment that suggested the issue was being blown out of proportion, the actor reiterated his stand. He stated, “There is only one reason why I cannot tolerate such nonsense; every time we remain silent, such despicable acts become commonplace. I ask those who advise me to take this lightly to leave me alone”. He further added that he would not ignore matters that affect his beliefs, making it clear that he does not subscribe to dismissing such concerns casually.
The actor also emphasised the importance of mutual respect in a diverse society. “Just as I respect the religious sentiments of others, you are also obliged to respect my sentiments. Be secular in every sense. If you are told not to do something, then don’t do it, it doesn’t need any explanation. I cannot see this as a Vishu poster”, he clarified. Unni Mukundan’s remarks have added a prominent voice to the ongoing controversy, reinforcing the call for sensitivity in the portrayal of religious figures, particularly during culturally significant occasions like Vishu.
Vishu advertisement row and wider controversy
The controversy began with a Vishu-themed advertisement released by Meher Mandi & Grills in Alappuzha district, depicted Bhagwan Krishna alongside a non-vegetarian dish, including a biryani platter with fried chicken. The imagery led to widespread protests and strong reactions from various Hindu organisations. In the aftermath of the controversy, protests were organised in Cherthala by groups including the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), with demonstrators marching towards the establishment and demanding action. Police intervened to manage the situation, and in connection with the case, a co-owner named Arshad was taken into custody by the Cherthala police and booked under Section 192 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) as part of the ongoing investigation.
As the issue gained prominence, similar advertisements surfaced from other restaurants across Kerala, including Go Grill Mandi Mahal Hotel in Erattupetta (Kottayam district), Mandi Manzil Hotel Group with outlets in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Alappuzha, and Thalassery Kitchen in Kozhikode, owned by Shareef and Munawar. Across these campaigns, Bhagwan Krishna was depicted in close proximity to non-vegetarian dishes such as biryani and fried meat items. The recurrence of similar visual elements across multiple establishments has expanded the controversy beyond a single incident, bringing attention to a broader pattern in the use of religious imagery in public campaigns. With protests continuing and public debate intensifying, the issue remains a focal point of discussion across the state.
