Resul Pookutty resigns as Chalachitra Academy chairman; successor search begins; Jagadish is among names in discussion

Academy Award-winning sound designer Resul Pookutty has stepped down as chairman of the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy. His resignation follows the recent change in government in Kerala.Resul Pookutty reportedly submitted his resignation to the chief secretary, ending his tenure at the state-backed film body.According to On Manorama, Resul Pookutty's exit marks a significant change in the leadership of the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy.The Academy plays a crucial role in promoting cinema by organizing film-related activities and conducting the prestigious International Film Festival of Kerala.With the chairman's position now vacant, attention has shifted toward selecting a new leader who will guide the institution in the coming years.Following Resul Pookutty's resignation, speculation has begun regarding his possible successor. Among the prominent names being discussed is veteran actor Jagadish. Actor Salim Kumar and filmmaker Deepu Karunakaran are also reportedly under consideration.Another notable contender is Prem Kumar, who previously served as vice chairman of the academy.Prem Kumar had earlier taken charge of the Academy's leadership responsibilities on an interim basis after filmmaker Ranjith vacated the chairman's position.The Academy's current administration includes Vice Chairperson Kukku Parameswaran, who also serves as the General Secretary of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists. Secretary C. Ajoy continues to handle the Academy's administrative affairs.The governing council features several well-known personalities from Malayalam cinema. Members include actors Nikhila Vimal, Sudheer Karamana, and Santhosh Keezhattoor.Filmmaker Amal Neerad, playback singer Sithara Krishnakumar, and screenwriter Syam Pushkaran are also part of the council.Resul Pookutty's tenure witnessed criticism during the 2025 edition of IFFK. Filmmaker Dr. Biju openly criticized the Academy and the state government over issues related to the festival's organization.In a Facebook post, Dr. Biju referred to the academy chairman as a “dummy” and questioned his absence from the venue during the event.The filmmaker also pointed out that the festival was conducted without either an academy chairman or an artistic director being actively present.Responding to the criticism, Resul Pookutty later addressed the issue while speaking to the media in Thiruvananthapuram. According to Asianet News reports, he explained that some foreign filmmakers were unable to attend the festival because visa clearances had not been granted by the central government due to foreign policy-related reasons.Resul Pookutty also acknowledged that his absence had become a subject of criticism. However, he maintained that he remained involved in the festival's functioning and continued to participate in all major decisions made during the event.