TLDR;
This video discusses the passing of musician SP Venkatesh, reflects on the literary contributions of Shobhana Parameswaran Nair and the controversies surrounding MT Vasudevan Nair, including allegations of plagiarism and religious conversion. It also touches upon the support system for individuals who spread misinformation and hate speech.
- Remembering SP Venkatesh's musical legacy and personal anecdotes.
- Discussing Shobhana Parameswaran Nair's influence on Malayalam cinema and literature.
- Addressing allegations against MT Vasudevan Nair, including plagiarism and religious conversion, and defending his legacy.
Remembering SP Venkatesh [0:24]
The video starts by mourning the loss of music director SP Venkatesh, known for his work in the film "Balu Kiriyathinte State License." The speaker fondly recalls Venkatesh's charming personality, his signature style of wearing gold chains, and his ability to create hit songs. He shares personal anecdotes, including a memory of Venkatesh directing Yesudas during a recording session for the film "Pidakkodi Koovunna Nootandinuayi." The speaker also mentions some of his favorite songs composed by Venkatesh, such as "Mazhavillaadum Malayude Mukalil" from the movie "Thudarkatha" and "Neelanjjana Poovil" from "Paithrukam," highlighting Venkatesh's versatility and talent in composing music for various directors and genres.
Shobhana Parameswaran Nair's Influence [4:38]
The video then shifts to discussing Shobhana Parameswaran Nair, a figure from Mathrubhumi, emphasizing his significant yet often overlooked contributions to Malayalam cinema. The speaker highlights Nair's role in persuading MT Vasudevan Nair to write screenplays, recounting how he would personally fetch MT for these projects. He emphasizes the literary background of filmmakers of that era, who were avid readers. Nair's initial aspiration to produce a film led to "Ninamaninja Kalpadukal," based on a novel by Parappurath, which, despite not achieving commercial success, won a presidential award. This experience didn't deter Nair, who then pursued "Snehatinte Mukhangal," later known as "Murappennu," collaborating with MT Vasudevan Nair.
Collaboration on "Murappennu" [7:10]
The video describes the collaborative process between Shobhana Parameswaran Nair and MT Vasudevan Nair in creating "Murappennu." MT Vasudevan Nair initially hesitated due to the financial failure of "Ninamaninja Kalpadukal" but eventually agreed, suggesting that Vasu himself write the screenplay. Nair arranged for a house in Kozhikode for MT to write while balancing his Mathrubhumi job. They worked closely, with Nair providing daily feedback and support. The film, directed by Vincent Master with music by PA Chidambaranath, became a significant work, remembered for its song "Karayunno Puzha Chirikkunno." Despite its artistic merit, MT did not win the State Award for Best Screenplay for "Murappennu" as the awards started in 1969, after the film's release in 1965.
Defending MT Vasudevan Nair's Legacy [11:02]
The video addresses the controversies surrounding MT Vasudevan Nair, particularly allegations of plagiarism and religious conversion. The speaker defends MT, questioning why criticisms are surfacing only after his death. He references a book published by AV Sreekumar, which makes derogatory remarks about MT's first wife. The speaker criticizes the lack of sensitivity towards MT's family and questions the motives behind publishing such material. He contrasts this with the respect shown by figures like Noonadu Mohanan and Perumbadavam Sreedharan towards MT, emphasizing MT's significant contributions to literature and cinema.
Addressing Plagiarism Allegations [25:50]
The video addresses allegations that MT Vasudevan Nair plagiarized the story for his film "Sukrutham" from a novel titled "Ee Thuruthil Njan Thaniye." The speaker refutes these claims, asserting that "Sukrutham" is based on MT's own life experiences, including his struggles with alcoholism and his recovery. He criticizes those who spread these allegations, questioning their understanding of MT's work and personal history. The speaker also mentions that Hari Kumar initially rejected several stories narrated by MT before agreeing to film "Sukrutham".
Defending MT Against False Accusations [36:21]
The speaker continues to defend MT Vasudevan Nair against various accusations, including claims of promoting religious conversion. He vehemently denies these allegations, calling those who spread them "traitors" and "fools." The speaker emphasizes MT's contributions to Malayalam literature and culture, denouncing attempts to tarnish his legacy with baseless accusations. He also touches upon MT's professional integrity, citing instances where MT prioritized artistic integrity over financial gain. The speaker urges MT's children to take legal action against those who defame their father's name, emphasizing their financial capacity to do so and uphold his legacy.
