Support pours in from all sides for Kerala college student Hanan Hamid

Twenty-one-year-old Hanan Hamid is not your usual college student. She is an anchor for some stage shows, junior artist in movies, a flower girl and a fisherwoman. She does all these jobs to enable her to pursue her graduation and also keep the home fire burning.

After hearing her story, a filmmaker, Arun Gopy, offered her a role in his forthcoming Iruvathionnam Nootandu (21st Century) starring Malayalam actor Mohanlal's son Pranav Mohanlal.

Leading Malayalam daily Mathrubhumi had carried the story of Hanan, a BSc student at a private college in Thodupuzha, selling fish at Thammanam in Ernakulam after her college hours. Her parents are divorced; her father is an alcoholic and her mother mentally-disturbed.

Her story was widely shared on social media by people, including film artists and politicians. But, that also got the trolls behind they; they expressed doubts about Hanan's story and termed it as "fake" on social media. However, Hanan's college principal and neighbours came out in support of her and said the story published in the regional daily was not fake.

A teary-eyed Hanan appealed to her critics with folded hands to leave her alone. I do not want any help. Kindly leave me alone and allow me to do any kind of menial jobs to earn my daily bread," she said.

“They are criticising me without knowing the reality. My troubles began in the 7th standard. I have done dubbing, acted as a junior artist and took part in event management functions as a flower girl. But I have never approached a director or even knew anyone,” said a distraught Hanan to Mathrubhumi channel.

Taking note of cyber bullying, the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) of Kerala on Friday directed the state police to take action against those who allegedly posted insulting comments on social media platforms against Hanan. The CMO has also directed the District Collector to give protection to Hanan.

Union Minister of State KJ Alphons has also extended his support to Hanan. Alphons posted on Facebook: Kerala sharks stop attacking #Hanan. I'm ashamed. Here is a girl trying to put together a shattered life. You vultures!"