Actors turn men in white

Hyderabad: Tollywood actors who have been issued notices by the Special Investigative Team (SIT) of the excise department in connection with their alleged links to the drug mafia have all donned white shirts while appearing for questioning. Explaining the symbolism of this move, psychiatrists claim that wearing white shirt could be a ploy to signify their purity.

Dr Bharath Kumar, a psychiatrist, says, “White is often worn for formal functions. It is considered a safe colour and it generally portrays pure, gentlemanly character. It is the first choice of any accused to wear white. Perhaps it is done involuntarily, or one may believe it can cleanse his image.” Psychiatrists are also analysing the behaviour of actors being taken in for questioning.

They say that the posture and demeanour of most actors change in such situations —  they begin to cup their hands in front of the camera and keep their gaze lowered, which gives them the appearance of being meek and submissive. Dr Praveen Chintapati, a psychiatrist, says, “We should remember that these are seasoned actors. They know how to present themselves in public. They will put forth only their best side, to garner public support. White shirts seem to be very common during trials. Even O.J. Simpson wore a white shirt to his trial. The actors know how to navigate through the system so that they continue to be people’s favourite, and so that they get punished less severely.”

Experts say that fear can also play a crucial role in altering one’s behaviour. “While going in for questioning, people are venturing into unknown territory, and they are afraid of getting caught. Guilty conscience comes into play, and it makes them behave meek and humble in front of the camera. Their choice of clothing serves not to attract too much attention, so that they may get past the questioning session fairly unnoticed,” explained Dr Bharath.