In a recent turn of events, national award-winning singer K S Chithra has found herself at the center of social media criticism following a video message encouraging people to chant Lord Ram hymns during the upcoming Ram temple consecration ceremony in Ayodhya on January 22.
The brief video, circulated on various social media platforms, features Chithra urging individuals to chant the ‘Sri Rama, Jaya Rama, Jaya Jaya Rama’ mantra at 12:20 pm during the consecration ceremony. She also suggested lighting five-wick lamps in households on the same day to mark the occasion. The 60-year-old singer concluded her message with the Sanskrit hymn “Loka Samasta Sukhino Bhavantu,” expressing a wish for the Almighty’s blessings on everyone.
However, the video didn’t receive unanimous approval, as a section of netizens criticized Chithra, accusing her of taking a political stance with her message. Despite the backlash, others rallied in support of the singer, asserting her right to freedom of expression and opinion. Singer G Venugopal came to Chithra’s defense, highlighting the disheartening impact of online insults on her.
This online uproar against Chithra mirrors a recent incident involving actor Shobhana, who faced intense criticism for participating in a women’s empowerment program organized by the BJP. The cyber attack against Chithra adds another instance of public figures facing backlash for their associations or expressions.
Known as the ‘Vanambadi’ (nightingale) of Kerala, Chithra has contributed significantly to the music industry, boasting a vast repertoire in multiple languages and earning numerous national and state awards. Despite the controversy, her impact on the world of music remains undisputed.
In the broader context of celebrities facing public scrutiny for their affiliations, the incidents involving Chithra and Shobhana underscore the challenges public figures encounter when expressing their beliefs or participating in events with political undertones. As discussions surrounding freedom of expression and the role of celebrities in socio-political discourse continue, these incidents serve as a reflection of the complexities within public perception of individuals in the limelight.
Nithin Rosh 
Nisham Ismail