Last year at the 21st International Film Festival IFFK, the audiences were forced to stand up for the National Anthem while it was played before the screenings at the halls. And those who failed to do so was arrested by the Police, creating commotion and protests during the screening time. 

This year the Kerala Chalachitra Academy chairman Kamal has made it clear that there is no need for the police to nab or force anyone to stand up for the National Anthem. He added that the people should stand up to the National Anthem on their own patriotism. The prestigious 22nd IFFK has started in Trivandrum on December 8th and will end on December 15th.