Entrepreneur, designer and former Bigg Boss contestant Sobha Vishwanath has addressed the mounting criticism surrounding her role as a judge at the British Malayali Miss Kerala Europe 2025 pageant, following a controversial question posed during the event.
The question “Do you prefer Manju Warrier or Kavya Madhavan?” sparked significant outrage online, with many accusing the judging panel of insensitivity. Sobha, who judged the event alongside popular television host Lakshmi Nakshathra, has since clarified that the question was drafted by the organisers and not by the judges themselves.
“This was clearly an attempt to stir controversy for publicity. They've metaphorically smeared soot on our faces,” Sobha said in her statement, distancing herself and Lakshmi from the content of the Q&A round.
The situation escalated further when actor-director Dhyan Sreenivasan, who appeared on stage after the segment, made a satirical jab: “I thought the next question would be whether they preferred Dileep or Pulsar Suni.” While the comment drew laughter at the venue, it provoked widespread criticism on social media for its perceived insensitivity.
Responding to Dhyan's remark, Sobha said, “I see Dhyan as a brother, and such insensitive comments coming from him were painful.”
Sobha also revealed that the event was a charity initiative and stated she received no payment for her appearance. “I joined the show in good faith to support a charitable cause, not to be dragged into a publicity stunt,” she emphasised.
The controversy has ignited a wider conversation about accountability and ethical conduct in public events, especially those staged within diasporic and culturally sensitive communities.