This is why Parvathy Thiruvothu thinks the Hema Committee is more than Me Too, part two

Warning: This article contains references to sexual and physical abuse.

Parvathy Thiruvothu has raised her voice against the perpetrators following the findings of the Hema Commission report. Speaking on the ongoing issue, she said that the report has become a “game changer” and also a “historic moment” in the Malayalam film industry. Speaking to AFP, Parvathy further explained that the row over the Hema Commission report is not just a “MeToo part two”.

Parvathy, a member of the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC), shared her perspective on the issue. She said, “There was this idea that women working in the industry should be grateful for the opportunity given to them by the men who hired them.”

The actress further recalled that such allegations of sexual abuse and assault in Indian cinema are not new at all. The same wave came back in 2018, after the MeToo movement in Hollywood in 2017 that took place because of the famous producer Harvey Weinstein.

Parvathy said the recent findings of the Hema committee and the allegations against famous men are much more than “MeToo Part Two.” She told AFP the report “turns everything on its head” and “it is no longer an individual-to-individual complaint. It is about a systemic structure that continues to fail women.”

The Thangalaan actress also shared a message to all the women in showbiz who have faced sexual abuse. She said, “You are a talented artist… don’t listen to anyone who tells you to find another job if it’s so difficult for you.”

Parvathy added: “This is your industry, as much as anyone else’s. Speak out so we can take the space that is rightfully ours.”

The Hema committee report came to light after it was made public on August 19. The controversial report mentioned the widespread exploitation of women in the Malayalam film industry. It also revealed cases of sexual abuse, casting couch and male-dominated power structure in the film industry, among other issues.

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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