Singer Chinmayi Sripaada has criticised actor Kamal Haasan for congratulating poet-lyricist Vairamuthu on winning the Jnanpith Award, India's most prestigious literary honour. Chinmayi, who accused Vairamuthu of molestation in 2018, took to social media to express her disappointment, saying men in power will always stand by their own, regardless of the trauma caused to women.
Kamal Haasan had praised Vairamuthu, calling him a friend and expressing pride in his achievement. However, Chinmayi pointed out that Vairamuthu has been accused of sexual harassment by multiple women, including members of the DMK party. She questioned the decision to confer the award on someone with such allegations, saying it's a slap in the face for women who have spoken out against him.
Chinmayi also highlighted how Vairamuthu had to turn down the ONV Literary Award in 2021 due to backlash over the allegations. She claimed she was banned from singing and dubbing in Tamil cinema for speaking out against Vairamuthu, and many other women had to pay a heavy price for sharing their stories.
The controversy has sparked a heated debate, with many calling out the decision to honour Vairamuthu despite the allegations.