Sir — This refers to the editorial, “lost in translation” (February 16). Priya Prakash Varrier’s winking clip made her an Internet sensation and catapulted her to stardom overnight. It was unfortunate that the representation, a passing treat to the eyes, has been misrepresented as an insult to the Prophet and the Muslims.
The song, Manikya Malaraya Poovi, is a number from the Mappila Pattu, a compilation of popular folk songs in north Kerala. It is sung during weddings and other occasions. Describing Khadeja Beevi as a ‘pearl flower’ is a tribute to the Prophet’s wife and by no stretch of imagination can it be construed as irreverence to her. In fact, it is full of praise for the Prophet’s wife.
To say that a woman desired or desires a man, is not being irreligious. It cannot be helped if someone cannot distinguish between praise and blasphemy. How can one be so blinded by bigotry to take offence at romancing by a teenage couple, defies comprehension. Thankfully, Muslims in Kerala and also outside the State are sharing the joy of watching the promo from the Malayalam movie Oru Adaar love and have dismissed the row as an unnecessary controversy.