Why Was There a Need to Mute That Word? — Kona Venkat

Known as the ‘King of Entertainment’, Sree Vishnu is back to entertain audiences with his latest film, Comrade Kalyan. Directed by Janakiram Marella, the comedy drama was released in theatres yesterday, with Mollywood actress Mahima Nambiar playing the female lead. The film generated curiosity among comedy lovers ahead of its release. During the pre-release promotions, presenter Kona Venkat criticised the censor board’s decision to mute the word ‘Naxalite’, questioning the move when the term had already reached millions through the film’s promotional material.

As part of the certification process, references to brands such as Pan Parag and Gutka, along with certain sensitive visuals and dialogues, were muted or trimmed. The makers removed approximately 1 minute and 32 seconds of footage to secure certification, bringing the film’s final runtime to 2 hours and 25 minutes. Veteran actress Radhika Sarathkumar, Shine Tom Chacko, Upendra Limaye, Satya, Brahmaji and Vennela Kishore play key supporting roles. Produced by Skanda Vahana Motion Pictures LLP, the film features music composed by Vijai Bulganin.