Daily Times

The Manikya Malaraya Poovi song that was launched as a teaser of the much hyped Malayalam film Oru Adaar Love film starring internet sensation Priya Prakash Varrier has been banned on YouTube in Pakistan via a court order.

If you try to access the song from Pakistan you see this message: “This content is not available on this country domain due to a court order.”

The song in question is a Malayalam folk song and the way it has been used in the film has sparked controversy both India and Pakistan. The song despite being originally written by a Muslim poet and traditionally sung by Malayalam Muslims has been slammed with blasphemy accusations.

The song became a center of controversy in Pakistan as well when a few anchorpersons did shows on this and termed it ‘cultural warfare’ against Pakistan and Muslims.

While the YouTube screen said the video has been banned because of a court order, it is unclear at this point what exactly the court order stated. We have contacted Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) spokesperson, YouTube and film’s crew for comments and are awaiting response. We’ll update the story with their comments.

Indian Supreme Court stays all FIRs against the song

There was a case filed in Indian state Hyderabad alleging the producers of the film of hurting sentiments of the Muslim community. The court is yet to rule on the original petition but Priya Prakash had also moved the Supreme Court directly seeking to set aside all petitions against the film and the song.

Granting, Priya’s motion, the Indian Supreme Court has stayed not only the FIR that was lodged in Hyderabad but has also directed not to lodge more cases against the actors, producers and the director of the film.

The Manikya Malaraya Poovi song

The song in question is a Muslim folk song from Indian state Kerala and celebrates the love story of the Islamic Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his first wife Hazrat Khadija (RA). The song is also recited as a naat by Muslim reciters in the state.
Many clerics in India have said they don’t have problem with the song itself but with the portrayal of modern high school love with that song in the background.

Muslim cast and production members ‘disappointed’

Ironically, film’s director Omar Lulu, music producer Shaan and several other members in the production are also Muslims. Not just the production members but several cast members including the protagonist’s co-star Roshan Abdul Rahoof are also Muslims. In interview to various Indian media outlets, they have expressed disappointment over allegations.

This is a developing story