(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) A massive crowd gathered on the narrow streets of Karama on Wednesday evening as controversial Malayalam film actor Dileep inaugurated an outlet of his restaurant chain 'Dhe Puttu' in Dubai.
Traffic slowed down as people thronged at the entrance of the restaurant to catch a glimpse of the actor even hours before the function. The trip to Dubai is Dileep's first after he spent 85 days in jail in connection with a case of assault on a leading South Indian actress. The opening was in news for days as he received special permission from the Kerala High Court to travel to Dubai for the function.
Five mothers of the seven partners of Dhe Puttu cut the ceremonial ribbon to launch the restaurant.
Dileep arrived in Dubai on Tuesday afternoon along with his mother to launch the outlet that he co-owns with director Nadirshah.
After arriving at the venue, the actor was escorted to the restaurant and later, he waved at his fans from the balcony. The inauguration also witnessed traditional Malayalee percussion artists.
However, people attending the opening were unmoved by the ongoing case and other incidents related to Dileep in India. Ram Mohan, a resident of Karama, said: "Despite all the controversies, he's still here. But the case has got nothing to do with my visit here."
Ajith Mathew Joseph said: "I've come all the way from Al Nahda to see Dileep. I've visited the restaurant in Kerala and the food is great. The issues Dileep is involved in has nothing to do with the restaurant, because it is employing a lot of people."
For Cristo Thankachan, who has "always been a big fan of Dileep", it's exciting to finally see his favourite star. "I've seen almost all his movies, and some of my friends work at the restaurant too."
Dileep's partner and movie director Nadirshah, along with the seven other partners of the restaurant, were present at the function. "Traditionally, all our restaurants are inaugurated by mothers of the partners of Dhe Puttu," said Nadirshah earlier.
Dhanusha Gokulan The resident transport and traffic expert, with a touch of music, culture, and youth. I report on everything from rent hikes to traffic jams, from 'most expensive' experiences to tallest buildings, from encouraging upcoming talents to camels laughing. I've been a journalist for seven years and I am ridiculously passionate about music, books, internet memes, Facebook procrastination, and the occasional sport activity (candycrush).
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