The makers of the Prithviraj-starrer 'Bhramam' have released an official statement categorically denying allegations of political bias in the exclusion of actress Ahaana Krishna from the final cast. Social media users had come forth to allege that Ahaana was dropped from the film due to her father, actor Krishna Kumar's open affiliation with the Bharatiya Janata Party.
"We, Open Book Productions, the executive producers of the Malayalam Bhramam film, hereby categorically deny any political affiliations or any other consideration having anything to do with the casting and choice of technicians in the film," the statement reads.
Ahaana Krishna also released a video statement on her official Instagram page denying the role of any politics in the decision and requested that her face and reputation be kept out of such news.
"Sometimes you won't even have done anything but you'll just be pulled into this crazy circus," the actress can be seen saying. "…If you see any unnecessary news...please keep me out of it."
The statement by the executive producers mentions that though Ahaana had been selected for a crucial role, she was later excluded due to scheduling concerns and lack of appropriateness for the character.
"As professionals with more than a combined 100 years of experience in filmmaking, we believe and take every precaution that the art of filmmaking should be spared from discrimination based on caste, creed, colour, sex, religion or politics," Open Book Productions said.
"We are deeply saddened by the assumptions that our film was brought up here and we also regret that the other cast and crew members, including our lead actor, was drawn into this question. We would like to categorically state that Mr Prithviraj Sukumaran or other members of the team had absolutely nothing to do with Bhramam's casting decisions, "the statement reads.
'Bhramam' is a remake of the National Award-winning film 'Andhadhun' starring Ayushmann Khuranna, Radhika Apte and Tabu. The Malayalam version is currently in its post-production phase and features Prithviraj Sukumaran, Mamta Mohandas and Rashi Khanna in main roles.