The last-minute withdrawal of the Speaker sparked a protest against the unveiling of Kanayi’s statue in Kasaragod

Kanayi Kunhiraman | Photo credit: File photo

Uncertainty over the unveiling of the statue by artist Kanayi Kunhiraman in Kasaragod on Friday (November 13) sparked a row after spokesperson Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan, who was supposed to inaugurate the installation, failed to turn up at the last minute.

The unexpected development sparked protests and sharp criticism from elected representatives, cultural activists and members of the art fraternity, who saw the speaker’s absence as an insult to the veteran sculptor.

When the organizers suggested Kasaragod MP Rajmohan Unnithan as the alternate chief guest, the protesters demanded that Mr. Kunhiraman himself unveil the statues.

P. Sudhakaran, co-author of Kanayi’s autobiography, openly expressed his disappointment at the speaker’s last-minute appearance. He said the development has harmed both sculptors and the art community. He pointed out that Kanayi carried out the project without accepting any remuneration despite having several other professional commitments.

The protest intensified when documentarian and art historian AT Mohandas removed a ribbon tied across the square to express his opposition to the change of plan. Finally, Mr. Kunhiraman formally unveiled the creation.

Published – 14 Nov 2026 0:38 IST