Date:07/05/2009 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2009/05/07/stories/2009050757282000.htm

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Mammooty questioned at U.S. airport

New York: Actor Mammooty was questioned by officials at the JFK International Airport on his arrival here over his Muslim name in his passport on April 29.

The 56-year-old actor was “separated for questioning” for two hours by security officials after part of his official name ‘Muhammadkutty Ismail’ popped up on the computer screen at the immigration counter while his travel documents were being screened. Mammooty’s actual name is Muhammadkutty Ismail Paniparambil.

Mammooty was allowed to leave only after the Indian Consulate contacted authorities and explained he was a popular actor in southern India and had visited the United States. several times in the past, consulate sources said. — PTI