Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala’s dwarfs have decided to organise themselves in their bid to stand tall in a society that often looks down upon them.

They will be meeting at Kochi on August 18 to launch an association called All Kerala Small Men Association.

The association will be formed along the lines of organisations floated by tall men to protect their rights and to stand up to society’s ridicule. There are approximately 500 dwarfs in the state.

Encouraged by movie

The dwarfs had not felt the need for organising themselves till recently. But they say that the apathy of the society and government towards them spurred them into action.

The casting of 300 dwarfs in a recent Malayalam film by noted director Vinayan also encouraged them to come together. Eight short men had played lead roles in the film.

The film entitled Albhudhadweepu (Wonder Island) has evoked interest from Bollywood as well as Hollywood after it became a hit in the state.

Fight for benefits

Mujibur Rehman, who has taken the initiative for forming the association, said they would consider all below 4’6 as short men, eligible for membership in the association.

He said the first task of the association would be to fight for benefits due to disabled persons.

“The society has been meting out insults to us due to our physical deformities, but the government is not willing to recognise us as disabled people and extend the benefits given to them,” he said adding that the short men should be eligible for it since they cannot do all jobs.

He said that the association would fight for this and against all other discriminations.

The launch of the association will be marked by a stage show featuring short artistes. Many of them have gained popularity through cinema and television programmes.

500
The number of dwarfs in Kerala