Mallika Sarabhai claims to limit restrictions on free expression of Kerala minister Kalamandalam

Mallika Sarabhai is the Prime Minister of Kalamandalam, Kerala and is considered a university of arts and culture. |Picture source: Special arrangement

The famous dancer, activist and prime minister of Kerala Kalamandalam of Mallika Sarabhai, claims that her freedom of speech was restricted in her new academic role.

In a candid Facebook post on Wednesday (April 30, 2025), Ms. Sarabhai reviewed her experience and wrote: “Today, I first thought about what it means to be a university president. Limited speech.” Her remarks came after the ongoing protests by Asha in Thrissur (Accredited Social Health Activist) who demanded better wages and improved working conditions.

She expressed support for the cause, noting that despite their important work done nationwide, ASHA workers “paid and use”.

Ms. Sarabhai also highlighted a citizen-funding initiative led by renowned writer and activist Sarah Joseph to support Thrissur’s workers and invited her to attend on Thursday.

However, Ms. Sarab revealed that after expressing her personal opinion on the issue, she seemed to be told not to do so, which led her to question the constraints on her public voice now.

“In Thrissur, ASHA workers are excited to increase their salary. I believe these workers do very important work everywhere and are paid and used. Sarah Joseph leads the citizens’ crowd funding to increase their salary.

“I was asked to ask for my own opinions and give me the same advice as I did for my life. Oh, no longer allowed. Uh. Uh. How do I stop being me? She wrote on the Facebook page.

She did not disclose who tried to impose these restrictions on her freedom of speech.

Leaders of protesting ASHA workers condemned the alleged curb, hoping that Sarabhai would participate in the protest online on Thursday night.

So far, neither the left-wing government nor the university authorities have responded to the allegations.

The left-wing government appointed Sarabhai as prime minister of Kalamandalam, Kerala, and is considered as the University of Arts and Culture on December 6, 2022.