The Kerala Assembly experienced an unusual event as a viral parody song, ‘Pottiye Ketti,’ based on a popular Sabarimala devotional hymn, resonated within the House during a heated debate on the Sabarimala gold theft case. The song, which gained fame after the controversy emerged, accuses “comrades” of being involved in the theft of gold plates associated with the hill shrine, extending its influence beyond social media to street protests, political activities, and now, the Assembly itself.
This parody has been viewed as damaging the reputation of the Left ahead of the local body elections in December. The commotion began after obituary references, transitioning into regular proceedings following the absence of Question Hour. Opposition Leader V.D. Satheesan highlighted the alleged looting of Sabarimala gold during the initial Pinarayi Vijayan government and demanded the resignation of Devaswom Minister V. N. Vasavan.
During the debate, Parliamentary Affairs Minister M.B. Rajesh defended the government, mentioning that the main accused, Unnikrishnan Potti, had met Congress leader Sonia Gandhi, leading to an uproar from the opposition. This led to an unprecedented scene in the Kerala Assembly, with opposition members chanting slogans and singing the ‘Pottiye Ketti’ parody, countered by the treasury bench with their own version, transforming the legislative session into a political choir.
Despite Speaker A.N. Shamseer’s efforts to restore order, the chaos escalated, resulting in the adjournment of the House for the day. The Assembly is set to reconvene on Tuesday, while the political clashes continued outside, with accusations of disruption from both sides. The incident highlighted how a cultural meme like the parody song has evolved into a powerful political tool, resonating not just in public discourse but also within the legislative chambers.
