Actor and TV presenter Pearle Maaney has issued a clarification video after she was criticised for her recent social media post concerning the NEET student protests. The controversy grew after the son of filmmaker Sibi Malayil, Jo Sibi Malayil, shared a long Instagram post in support of her comments. As Sibi Malayil’s name began trending in the debate, Pearle Maaney came forward with an emotional video, expressing regret over her choice of words and insisting that she never intended to disrespect the veteran filmmaker.
Pearle Maaney explains the controversy, expresses respect for Sibi Malayil
In her video, Pearle Maaney explained that her original post was misunderstood and that people gave it meanings she had never intended. “I posted it around 11 o’clock. Whatever we post today, some people will see the good side while others will see the bad side. Most people understood what I meant. But after some time, comments started coming with interpretations that I had never even imagined. I kept wondering, ‘I never wrote this. This is not what I meant.’ Even when I said ‘Go Home,’ I only meant that all of you should stay safe. I am nobody to ask anyone to stop their protest and go home.” She said the post was written after watching disturbing videos of students being beaten during the protests and added that she was deeply hurt after learning through direct messages that her words were being interpreted differently.
Pearle Maaney apologises for her remark, praises veteran filmmaker
Addressing the controversy surrounding Sibi Malayil, Pearle Maaney made it clear that her criticism was aimed only at the person who had written a long post about her and not at the acclaimed director. She also apologised for describing someone as a “failed filmmaker.” “I stayed silent for a while, but things kept getting bigger. I am posting this video only to tell you the truth. I would never say something like that about Sibi Malayil sir. He is one of the finest filmmakers in Malayalam cinema, and everyone knows that. I am a huge admirer of his. Sir, if you are watching this, I am your biggest fan. I am truly sorry that I had to use the words ‘failed filmmaker.'” She added that she has always respected Sibi Malayil and never intended to drag his name into the controversy.
Actor says criticism is welcome, but truth must be understood
Pearle Maaney concluded her video by saying she was not asking people to stop criticising her, as social media is a public platform where everyone has the right to express an opinion. However, she hoped viewers would understand the truth behind her post before judging her intentions. Her explanation has reignited a fresh debate online, with many accepting her apology and explanation while others continue to argue about the original post. The video is now going viral, adding another chapter to the controversy that has been dominating conversations on Malayalam social media.
