The report by the retired judge Hema Commission has created a massive stir in the Malayalam film industry. In addition to the controversies already in the spotlight, another actress has filed sexual harassment complaints against four actors, intensifying the situation even further.
Many have been saying that the Tamil cinema world should learn a lesson from the Malayalam film world; There style of filming, proper use of OTT after Corona, and storyline, production quality are all excellent.
Background: The Shocking Revelations in the Report
In 2017, a prominent actress from the Malayalam film industry was sexually assaulted in a moving car, which sent shockwaves across the country. Following this incident, well-known Malayalam actor Dileep was arrested. To investigate the situation of women in the Malayalam film industry, a commission was formed under the leadership of retired judge Hema, actress Sarada, and former IAS officer Valsala Kumari.
This investigation committee submitted its report to the Kerala government at the end of 2019. However, the report remained unpublished for over four years. It is widely speculated that the government refrained from making the report public due to the presence of many shocking revelations.
Key Findings of the Report
The Hema Commission’s report brings to light some of the most troubling aspects of the Malayalam film industry:
- Attitude Toward Women: The report reveals that many men in the Malayalam film industry believe that women who come looking for opportunities are “ready for anything.” This attitude highlights a deep-rooted misogyny and patriarchal mindset within the industry.
- Pressure to Fulfill Sexual Demands: Women seeking opportunities are often met with demands for “compromise” or “adjustment,” implying that only by fulfilling sexual needs can they secure roles. Some even suggest that this is why several leading actresses are where they are today.
- Money and Fame over Art: There is a belief that women are in the film industry solely for money and fame, not for their passion for art or acting. This notion further perpetuates the exploitation and objectification of women.
- Continuous Harassment: Women in the Malayalam film industry face continuous harassment, even during shootings. Many actresses are forced to bring their parents or relatives along for protection while traveling to shooting locations. There are frequent incidents of male colleagues knocking on their hotel room doors late at night under the influence of alcohol, sometimes to the extent of breaking down the doors.
- Defamation through Fan Clubs: The report also states that some individuals, under the guise of fan clubs, spread false stories about actresses to tarnish their reputation. These fan clubs often work for multiple actors, amplifying the problem.
- Condition of Supporting Actresses and Junior Artists: If this is the state of leading actresses, the situation of supporting actresses and junior artists is likely to be even worse. The report suggests that they often do not receive proper food, wages, or access to basic amenities like restrooms and are subjected to relentless exploitation and sexual harassment.
Actions by the Kerala Government
Following the release of this report, a massive uproar ensued within the Malayalam film industry. Several leading actors and directors faced sexual harassment allegations. Notably, renowned director Ranjith, who also served as the chairman of the Kerala Film Academy, resigned after a sexual harassment complaint was filed against him by an actress from West Bengal. Similarly, Siddique, the general secretary of the Kerala Actors’ Association, also stepped down following allegations against him. Meanwhile, Tamil film actor Riyaz Khan faced accusations, which he has denied.
Recent Developments
After the release of this report, another actress filed complaints against actors Mukesh, Idavela Babu, Maniyanpilla Raju, and Jayasurya, accusing them of sexual harassment. These allegations have further rocked the Malayalam film industry, sparking widespread outrage and debate.
In response to these incidents, the Kerala government has set up a special investigation team led by an Inspector General (IG). However, some pages from the Hema Commission’s report, which named several accused individuals, were allegedly removed by the government. This raises questions about the effectiveness of the new investigation team and what justice it may bring.
Ongoing Discussions and Debates
The release of this report has intensified discussions and debates about the safety and rights of women in the Malayalam film industry. The revelations have exposed a grim reality that has forced many to confront the underlying misogyny, abuse of power, and exploitation prevalent in the industry. The outcome of these investigations and the subsequent actions taken will be closely watched, as they could potentially reshape the future of the Malayalam film industry and its treatment of women.
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