A controversy unfolded in Kerala when classical dancer Kalamandalam Sathyabhama made derogatory remarks against a male dancer, without mentioning his name, stating that "his complexion resembled that of a crow, and he appeared unsightly to perform the art".

During an interview with a YouTube channel, Sathyabhama asserted that Mohiniyattam, a classical dance form, was traditionally performed by 'mohinis' and deemed it unsuitable for men. She expressed her opinion that men appeared unattractive and out of place when performing Mohiniyattam.

Later, RLV Ramakrishnan, a renowned classical dancer and the brother of the late Malayalam actor Kalabhavan Mani, took to Facebook to express his objection to Sathyabhama's statement, asserting that it was directed towards him.

He wrote on Facebook that an artist bearing the esteemed title of Kalamandalam has repeatedly insulted him. He recalled previous instances where the respected guru had shown disinterest in his pursuit of Mohiniyattam and obtaining a PhD in the art form during his time at Kalamandalam.

He stated that individuals like these hinder the progress of artists from Scheduled Castes in the dance field. He asserted that those with such prejudiced views will be held accountable under the law.

Kalamandalam and RLV are renowned performing arts institutes in Kerala. Subsequently, both the ruling Left Democratic Front and the Opposition Congress condemned Satyabhama's remarks and expressed their support for Ramakrishnan.

Kerala's Social Justice Minister R Bindu pledged full support from her government to Ramakrishnan.

The Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI), the youth wing of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), has filed a complaint with the DGP. DYFI has announced plans to organize dance events featuring Ramakrishnan across the state.

Despite facing criticism, Satyabhama remained firm in her stance, refusing to retract her remarks.

She asserted her stance, stating that she stood by her comments, clarifying that they were not aimed at any specific individual. Satyabhama explained that she was citing teachings from the 'Natyashastra', a Sanskrit text on performing arts.

When asked whether the text implied that a good dancer must have fair skin, she emphasized the significance of physical appearance in dance, referring to it as the "beauty of the body".

Image source: India Today