Actress and television presenter Pearle Maaney has come under fire on social media following her comments on the student protests taking place at Jantar Mantar.What started as a post advocating peace and security quickly turned into a huge online controversy, with thousands of users criticizing his views.In just two days, Pearle, who also had a YouTube channel, reportedly lost 3 lakh followers on Instagram. His followers also dropped on Facebook and YouTube.
Pearle Maaney’s writings on student protests bring a different perspective
Pearle addressed the student protests via a lengthy Instagram post. He wrote, “All I could think was… Please do no harm. Please be safe. If your life is in danger, go home. There is no reason to lose life. At the same time, I hope that the original purpose of this movement will not be overshadowed. Every time every move gets bigger, emotions run wild, different voices come out, and the conversation can get really complicated. My hope is that the focus is always on the students and the future they are asking us to build. “Pearle wrote in the post, “The comment section is a reflection of my Freedom of Speech.” He later suspended comment as criticism grew.
Commentary on ‘Failed filmmaker’
The controversy escalated after Pearle shared several Instagram stories in response to her critics. One of the posts mentions a “failed filmmaker,” who many believe to be veteran director Siby Malayil.Pearle wrote, “My script should come with a warning I think! It has made many people feel free! It has made many people want a peaceful and non-violent defense. I wonder who these people are. A failed filmmaker is now writing the 10th script on my page 4. Adding chili powder and ajinomoto to make it as unhealthy as possible. And yes my favorite color is saffron! I think I like our Indian flag the most.“
Joe Sibi Malayil protects his father
Pearle’s Instagram posts drew a strong response from Joe Sibi Malayil, son of filmmaker Siby Malayil.Responding through his Instagram Stories, Joe wrote, “Hey momma bere that ‘failed filmmaker’ is my father. Look good in the face of who you are dealing with. How lazy do you have to be to read 7 slides? You expect 5.7 million followers to read your half-baked interview with 7 slides is too much for you? Since you made this personal, let the game begin. The ‘failed filmmaker’ did not raise a spineless child, unlike your father who raised a coward. PS her name is Siby Malayil. Do the same. Do what you can.”
Mareena Michael Kurisingal talks about healing and grace
In another story related to the event, actress Mareena Michael Kurisingal shared a heartfelt message, thanking everyone who stood by her in recent days. He said the conversation was not about defeating someone but about healing, respect and helping people who have been victimized online.He wrote, “This isn’t about victory. It’s about healing….To anyone who has ever been bullied online, ridiculed, silenced, or felt invisible for speaking your truth or for being honest—this is for you. And today, I feel seen.”Regarding Pearle Maaney, Mareena added, “One time you said to me, ‘I didn’t know you existed.’ That’s good. Recognition is not a measure of a person’s worth. And the strange thing is, today we are talking because your words made people pay attention—not who I am, but how you chose to answer. Sometimes, it’s not about who knew. It is about who has overcome opposition with grace. “