By Web Desk
Thiruvananthapuram: Suresh Gopi, the Central Minister of State from Kerala, has had his desire to act in films temporarily denied by the central government. As a result, the actor has removed the beard he had grown for his role as the lead character in the Malayalam film Ottakomban. The shooting of the film, which was supposed to begin this December, is now certain to be delayed. The central government had earlier permitted one film role per year for Suresh Gopi, but the official duties of the Central minister have led to the delay in shooting. Some key scenes of the movie Ottakomban were supposed to be filmed during the annual feast at the Marymatha church in Palai. A few preliminary scenes were already shot during the previous feast day.
To avoid further delays in the shoot, Suresh Gopi approached the central leadership. However, after not receiving permission, he had to say goodbye to the beard that he had been growing even during the election days. At the same time, dismissing rumors, Suresh Gopi clarified through social media that Ottakomban (SG 250) will be released in 2025. He also shared a new image of himself without the beard, along with the caption, “Change is the only constant,” on his Facebook page.
It is reported that he was advised by the party leadership to stay in the capital for three days and visit institutions related to ministries. Suresh Gopi had previously stated that if the position of Union Minister becomes an obstacle to his film career, he would be willing to give it up. Referring to the fact that he had already committed to 22 films, he informed his film industry colleagues that his request to act in movies had been turned down by Amit Shah.
While he is fulfilling his political duty by representing Kerala in the Union Cabinet, which is of significant importance given the BJP’s victory in the state, Suresh Gopi still has a desire to return to acting. Although he may receive permission to act in one film per year, there is doubt about whether he will be allowed to accept remuneration for acting, as there are legal restrictions under the conduct rules for central and state ministers, which prohibit them from taking paid roles in other professions. This was clarified by legal experts, including former Lok Sabha Secretary-General P.D.T. Achary, who shared this view with Malayala Manorama.
