Mammootty criticised for permitting tilak on forehead; Harisree Yousuf defends the star: ‘Frog in a well’

At the recently held National Awards ceremony in Gujarat, Mammootty was welcomed with a tilak. It resulted in criticism.

Malayalam star Mammootty was recently honoured at the National Film Awards held in Gujarat for his performance in Bramayugam. A video of the actor being welcomed by a woman who applied a tilak on his forehead went viral. Amid many celebrating his Best Actor win, some criticised him for it. Filmmaker-actor Harisree Yousuf defended him.

Some questioned why Mammootty allowed his forehead to be marked with a tilak. (Pic credit: Statue of Unity)

Mammootty criticised over tilak

The video posted on the Statue of Unity page shows Mammootty wearing a white shirt and cream pants. As he arrives at the awards ceremony, he’s welcomed with a bouquet. A woman greets him by applying a tilak on his forehead and placing a tri-colour thorthu (shoulder cloth) around his neck. The actor can be seen smiling widely. Amid all the comments congratulating him over his win, there were some who criticised him for being a Muslim and yet allowing a tilak to be applied.

Harisree Yousuf hits back at critics

Yousuf referenced the Mammootty video and the criticism on his Instagram, noting that while most Malayalis were celebrating the star, some were critical of the tilak. He even referenced one particular comment, calling the person who made it a ‘frog in a well’. He also pointed out that in India, there are numerous ways to worship the same God.

“You draw a cross, apply a tilak, or bow down and pray; it is all directed towards God. It shows love for our Creator,” he said, stating that a tilak can just be a traditional way to welcome guests. He criticised those using religion to abuse others online, stating that it must not be used to create divisions, but to encourage people to become better human beings. He criticised the person who criticised Mammootty, stating that such attitudes would lead to communal divisions.

Yusuf said, “India is a great country. It is people like you who create communal division. Don’t do anything like this again.” The filmmaker-actor also highlighted that, beyond Mammootty’s religion and action, he has contributed to society through charity and supported organisations that support healthcare for years now.

Mammootty’s recent work

Mammootty starred in the spy action film Patriot this year and played cameos in Chatha Pacha and Law and Order. He now has Om - Chapter 1: Udhiram - The Blood Wood lined up with Dhanush in Tamil, and Padayaatra, Mela and Mattancherry Mafia in Malayalam. He also has a yet-to-be-titled film which will begin production soon.