Artistes feel the order could curtail Kerala’s famed and ancient art forms like Kathakali which are performed well into the wee hours
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A Supreme Court order banning the use of loudspeakers and musical instruments in residential areas from 10 pm to 6 am has ruffled feathers in the artiste community. Artistes feel the order could curtail Kerala’s famed and ancient art forms like Kathakali which are performed well into the wee hours.
The Supreme Court, on a writ petition, had directed on July 18 that the use of loudspeakers in residential areas be banned from 10 pm to 6 am, unless it was unavoidable. As police began a crackdown on musical performances after 10 pm, artistes have formed an association to contest the ruling. They complain of high-handedness by the police.
“We are rendered jobless by the ruling. Even before 10 pm, police force us to wind up and seize our equipment. Sometimes they detain artistes for three-four hours. It is an infringement on our right to expression and right to livelihood,” said Ahwan Sebastian, general convener of Performing Artistes Coordination Kerala (PACK).
“It will also affect traditional art forms. How can Kathakali be performed without the accompaniment of chenda (the traditional drum)? The famed fireworks during Thrissur pooram start only after midnight. For centuries Kerala has been enjoying art at night. Can we celebrate Shivaratri at daytime or Christmas at 12 noon?” he argued.
The association has the backing of eminent jurist Justice V R Krisha Iyer. “Supreme Court has issued certain guidelines to be followed. Discretion must be shown while enforcing it. A ban may be necessary at certain places like near hospitals,” Justice Iyer told DNA.
PACK is planning to move the Supreme Court for a review of the judgment. “We are also moving the Kerala high court for specifications regarding the law. We want the government to make clear its stand on the matter,” said Manjeri Sunderraj, legal advisor to the association.
PACK has estimated that there may be about 3 lakh musicians in the state affected by the ban. Besides, now cops are demanding bribes from performers and organisers, they said.
“Malabar has a tradition of enjoying Saturday nights with musical performances. Now drums, trumpet and such instruments are not allowed.
Police had even interrupted a school youth festival last year. We are not against controlling noise pollution. But is music polluting?” asked Sebastian.
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