‘Suraj Venjaramoodu asked me if transgenders experience the same pleasure as women’: Anjali Ameer reveals after reporting the incident to Mammootty

Warning: This article contains references to sexual abuse.

Malayalam transwoman actor and model Anjali Ameer recently recalled a harrowing experience she went through during the shoot of her first film. She revealed that her Peranbu co-star Suraj Venjaramoodu made her feel uncomfortable on the sets of the film by asking her inappropriate questions.

During an interview with Mathrubhumi, Anjali said that he wonders if transgenders can experience the same pleasure as other women.

Shocked by his gesture, the actress reported him to Mammootty and the film’s director. After the incident, Suraj apologized for his derogatory remarks.

Talking about the incident, Anjali said, “I have never had such traumatic experiences until Suraj Venjaramoodu asked me if transgenders experience the same pleasure as women. I am a strong person but this question made me very angry. I warned him and reported it to Mammootty and the director. Venjaramoodu apologized and never spoke to me like that again, which I appreciate.”

The actress added that there are several respectful people in the industry. However, a minority of people engage in such unacceptable behavior, which is quite worrying.

Anjali said, “There are many good people in the industry, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t people who ask for compromises or favours. There are such people too.” The Peranbu actress also revealed that she maintains a professional boundary in her life to protect herself from exploitation.

In the wake of the Hema committee report, several well-known personalities have been accused of misconduct in the Malayalam film industry. Following these serious allegations, Mohanlal resigned as the president of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA), along with other committee members including Tovino Thomas.

Initially, AMMA Secretary General Siddique resigned after being accused of sexual abuse. Now the entire committee has been disbanded.

However, AMMA issued a statement saying that “a new governing body will be elected within two months”.

Disclaimer: If you need support or know someone who is struggling with domestic violence or abuse or mistreatment, please contact your nearest mental health specialist, NGO or talk to someone about it. There are several helplines available for the same.

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