Normally we ‘suspend disbelief’ to watch a play or a film. Now we do the same thing as a human drama involving one of Kerala’s famed actors is unfolding before our eyes. Dramatised by the media, the sensational case of the abduction and molestation of a Malayalam woman actor —with this leading actor alleged to be a key conspirator — has excelled a stage or screen story. It is a twist of fate that the actor who has played the part of a ‘hero’ in several blockbusters and earned the epithet of a beloved hero on account of his great acting talent has now acted as a “villain” in real life. For all his fame and fortune, was he not sufficiently sophisticated enough to understand that the truth has an uncanny knack of revisiting wrong-doers? The saga has brought out the dark underbelly of the Malayalam film industry and is sure to have some impact on the “actor-worship syndrome”.
G. David Milton,
Maruthancode, Tamil Nadu
The next coach
One’s personal attitude, especially the ability to manage a spectrum of players, is a fundamental requirement for being a good cricket coach. Ravi Shastri is one such figure, respected within the team, which is important for the team’s harmony.
He may not have a sharp cricketing mind, but the ability to bond well with the players is more important (‘Sport’ page – “Shastri confirmed as head coach”, July 12).
Nagarajamani M.V.,
Hyderabad