Mammootty watches latest film ‘Peranbu’ with disabled kids at Kochi theatre

Malayalam superstar Mammootty‘s Tamil movie Peranbu is running to packed houses across India. The film, revolving around the life of a father and his disabled daughter, has been praised by critics and fans.

This week, in a surprise move that won the hearts of many, the legendary star visited a theatre in Kochi, Kavitha, where Peranbu was being screened for children with disabilities. Mammootty’s young fans simply could not hide their excitement.

The screening was organized by the NGO Centre for Empowerment and Enrichment (CEFEE), which aims to empower disabled children. Over 100 people attended this screening, which included not just children with various disabilities, but also their families.

Peranbu, which has released in Tamil and Malayalam, has won audiences not just in India but also abroad for its realistic portrayal. Experts in the disability space hope this sensitively made film will help create awareness.

Even today people stare at us because we take out children outdoors. We get irritated when people stare at us like that, so imagine how the children feel? They understand everything. I feel ‘Peranbu’ is a movie that must be watched by everyone, not just disabled children or their parents. Movies like this are an eyeopener. – Dr Mary Anitha, Founder, Centre for Empowerment and Enrichment (CEFEE)

Dr Anitha says Mammootty, who supports the work done by CEFEE, had discussed the film with her extensively. She had been eagerly awaiting the release of Peranbu.

“Mammootty has donated equipment and helped us in numerous ways. We are proud to see the actor do such a remarkable job onscreen. We spoke to him about this special screening and he was more than glad to come and meet our children at the theatre. We hope Peranbu can convey the message that every disabled child’s parents wants society to know”, says Dr Anitha.

The children gave Mammootty a warm welcome when he entered the theatre. He was showered with love and lots of flowers, and there were demands for autographs and selfies. The sense of happiness and excitement was evident.

Among the children gathered around the star was Ammu, who has multiple disabilities, including cerebral palsy and autism. Her mother Asha Pradeep said Ammu loved Peranbu and was looking forward to meeting the actor.

“My daughter is very selective when it comes to watching movies and watches the really good ones with superstars”, said Pradeep. “She was very happy to watch Peranbu. The movie ha is beautifully made and kudos to the cast and crew”.

At a time when sensitively made films about disability are a rare treat, Peranbu is not-to-be missed.

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