In a statement issued by A.S. Shankarapandian, General Secretary of Samuga Pothunala Iyakkam (TNSPI), he stated as follows:
In recent times, the participation of cinema stars in college functions has been increasing. This does not benefit students in any way, and college campuses are increasingly changing from centres of education into centres of entertainment. Functions should be platforms for students to showcase their talents. However, with the arrival of stars, students’ talents are pushed into the background and the functions become stages where only the stars are given primary prominence.
Critical thinking, scientific outlook and social responsibility are being pushed into the background. Instead of encouraging students to become scientists, teachers and entrepreneurs, they are being turned into fans. Hero worship and celebrity worship are encouraged through this. Further, while promoting wrong role models, it also fails to remember and recognise those who have genuinely contributed to social development.
College functions are meant for the overall development of students. Art, literature, debate, technology and sports should be at their centre. However, it is distressing that colleges, which should guide students in the right direction, are deviating from this purpose and engaging in activities that dull students’ intellect. Film songs have been prohibited at government school functions.
The UGC (University Grants Commission), which regulates higher educational institutions, has not clearly stated proper decisions on this issue. These functions should promote genuine skill development in a manner useful for students’ future. In particular, if they become expressions of authentic culture, history, tradition, heritage and art, these functions can remain forever in students’ lives as a source of direction, a turning point and a pleasant experience.
Providing this platform to young artists, music groups and theatre groups would encourage their creativity. Writers, social activists, scientists, educationists, social thinkers, military personnel, achievers and others can be invited as guests to these functions. This would broaden students’ thinking. Turning educational institutions into cinema halls provides no benefit to the future of students or to society. The government and universities should recognise this and frame clear guidelines.
Head Office,
Samuga Pothunala Iyakkam (TNSPI).