Malayalam film artistes to raise funds through stage shows

Kochi, June 27 (IANS) The Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes (AMMA) Sunday decided to conduct stage shows to raise funds for providing monthly assistance to their aged members.

This was decided at the annual general body meeting of AMMA attended by leading artistes like superstars Mammootty, Mohanlal, besides Jayaram, Nedumudi Venu and thespian actor Madhu.

Speaking to IANS, comedy actor Jagdish said that there was a need for funds as they were giving monthly assistance to 60 artistes and this time, four more had been added.

"The only way to raise funds is through stage shows. It has been decided to hold the shows in February next year. The venue is yet to be decided. We might have more than one show," said Jagdish, who is also the treasurer of AMMA.

The association requires at least Rs.20 lakh for the monthly assistance of their aged members.

"The meeting also approved the dismissal of veteran actor Thilakan from the organization for breach of discipline. We are quite open and he can come back to our fraternity if he gives an apology. We have nothing against him," Jagdish said.

Among the other issues that came up for discussion was the need for maintaining a sense of discipline on shooting sets.

"The demand by the producer's association that artistes should keep the time schedule and avoid the use of mobile phones on the sets as far as possible was also welcomed by all," Jagdish said.