Caste Riots Fears and Arrests: ‘Maamannan’ Faces Opposition in Theni

Following a heated protest in Theni on June 29, approximately 20 individuals were reportedly detained by the police outside a theater. The protest arose due to the demand by members of the Tamil Desiya Forward Bloc to ban the film ‘Maamannan’ from being screened. The protestors raised slogans and criticized the ruling party DMK, leading to the arrest of those involved in the demonstration. The clash stemmed from concerns within the community that the film could incite caste-related tensions.

‘Maamannan’ is a political thriller that revolves around the Thevar community. The movie features Udayanidhi Stalin, Vadivelu, Fahadh Faasil, and Keerthy Suresh in prominent roles, with the music composed by AR Rahman. Since its theatrical release, the film has garnered positive reviews, particularly praising Vadivelu’s performance.

Director Mari Selvaraj’s statement that his film draws inspiration from Kamal Haasan’s ‘Thevar Magan’ faced significant backlash. Allegedly, individuals belonging to the Thevar caste expressed opposition to the film’s release. Media reports suggest that a few weeks prior to the film’s release, a bike rally was organized in Theni urging theaters not to screen ‘Maamannan’.