Malappuram: The Vishu advertisement controversy in Keralam has intensified, with fresh police action in Malappuram district following earlier cases in Alappuzha, as multiple restaurants face allegations of hurting Hindu religious sentiments through promotional content featuring religious imagery alongside non-vegetarian dishes. The latest case has been registered by the Keralam Police at Kottakkal in Malappuram district after a Vishu greeting poster showing chicken manti placed before an image of Bhagwan Krishna was circulated widely on social media. The poster was shared through the social media platforms of Arabian Majlis Restaurant and Raydan Restaurant, both known for operating multiple outlets in Keralam as well as in Gulf countries.
According to the complaint filed by a Malappuram native, the depiction was offensive to Hindu religious sentiments, particularly in the context of Vishu, where the Vishu Kani ritual holds deep cultural and spiritual significance. Acting on the complaint, police registered a case under Section 192 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which deals with intentional or malicious acts that may provoke unrest. Officials have initiated a probe into the origin, design, and dissemination of the poster, including the role of those handling the digital platforms of the establishments.
The controversial visual, which portrayed a child-like Krishna seated before a plate of chicken fry, spread rapidly across social media before being removed, triggering protests and public outrage. Investigators are now examining digital evidence, including social media activity and electronic devices, to trace responsibility and establish whether there was any coordinated effort behind the publication.
Cases spread across districts as arrests, protests follow controversial Vishu ads
The Malappuram case follows an earlier incident reported from Alappuzha district, which first brought the issue into the public spotlight. In Cherthala, Mehar Mandi & Grills, owned by Mohammed Shemir and associates, had released a Vishu-themed advertisement depicting Bhagwan Krishna alongside a non-vegetarian dish, including a biryani platter with fried chicken. The advertisement drew widespread criticism and led to protests by Hindu organisations. Based on the complaint, police registered a case against Arshad, identified as a co-owner of the establishment, under Section 192 of the Indian Penal Code. As part of the investigation, he was taken into custody, and electronic devices used in the creation and circulation of the advertisement were seized.
In a separate but similar incident within Malappuram district, police action resulted in arrests. The case involved Yamama Shawaya Hotel, where a Vishu-themed image depicted a child-like Krishna seated before a plate containing a meat dish. Though the post was later deleted, it had already circulated widely, triggering strong reactions.
Following complaints, the Mankada police registered a case on charges related to promoting communal disharmony. Three individuals, Mustafa of Pookottoor, Shahul Hameed, and Muhammed Shahil of Eramthode, were arrested in connection with the incident. Police also seized electronic devices believed to have been used in creating and sharing the controversial content.
In recent days, similar incidents have been reported from other parts of Keralam as well, including posts shared and later deleted by various establishments. With multiple cases now registered across districts and investigations ongoing, the Vishu advertisement row has evolved into a broader issue in Keralam, raising questions about the use of religious imagery in commercial promotions, the boundaries of creative expression, and the legal implications of content perceived as offensive by sections of society.
