The Dark Reality of Malayalam Cinema: Sexual Harassment Scandal Shakes Up the Industry

The Malayalam film industry, long lauded for its nuanced storytelling and engaging performances, is now grappling with a shocking scandal that underscores a serious and disturbing problem: systematic sexual harassment. The unrest began with the 2017 assault on actress Bhavana Menon, an incident involving prominent actor Dileep that led to his brief incarceration. The incident and subsequent allegations unleashed a firestorm in the industry, culminating in the formation of the Justice Hema Committee and several ongoing investigations.

The crisis unfolds

In 2017, the attack on actress Bhavana Menon by a group of men travelling from Thrissur to Kochi became a major news story. The involvement of lead actor Dileep, though he denied the charges and was later released on bail, cast a shadow over the film industry. In response to this and similar incidents, the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) was formed, which led to the formation of the Hema Committee in November 2017 to look into these issues.

Findings of the Hema Justice Commission

The Justice Hema Committee, chaired by retired Justice K Hema, has revealed disturbing findings about the Malayalam film industry. The committee’s 235-page report, released on August 19, 2023, detailed systemic abuses and pointed to male-dominated control of the industry. According to the report, the industry is largely controlled by a small group of influential men – producers, directors and actors – who have used their power to perpetuate exploitation and intimidation.

The committee found that women in the industry often face serious indignities, including the lack of basic facilities such as toilets and changing rooms on sets. Many women have to find secluded places to attend to personal needs, reflecting a wider pattern of neglect and disrespect for female workers.

Personal accounts and emerging research

The report’s release prompted several women to come forward with their own stories. Bengali actress Sreelekha Mitra accused director Ranjith of sexual misconduct during a 2009 film project. Mitra’s complaint to the Kochi city police described a disturbing encounter in which Ranjith allegedly tried to assault her under the guise of a professional meeting.

Actress Revathy Sampath also accused actor Siddique of sexual misconduct, alleging that he used deceptive means to lure her into a compromising situation. Siddique has since filed a counter-complaint against Sampath, adding another layer of complexity to the unfolding drama.

Actor Minu Muneer has similarly accused several male co-stars, including CPI(M) MLA M Mukesh, Jayasurya, Maniyanpilla Raju and Idavela Babu, of harassment and verbal abuse. Muneer’s allegations include forceful and unwanted physical contact, reflecting a deep-rooted culture of abuse.

The culture of silence and fear within the industry is exacerbated by a lack of resources and job security. Many actors and crew members are reluctant to speak out due to the uncertain nature of their work. The fear of being blacklisted or losing future opportunities forces many to endure harassment in silence.

The ongoing crisis in Malayalam cinema reveals a dark and disturbing reality that goes beyond individual cases of harassment. It highlights the systemic issues that perpetuate abuse and the need for a cultural shift within the industry. As investigations continue and more voices emerge, it is crucial for the industry and its supporters to address these abuses with genuine dedication, and ensure that women are no longer silenced, but supported and respected.