In a groundbreaking revelation, Justice Hema’s committee report has brought to light some alarming details about the Malayalam film industry. The report, which was submitted to the government in 2019, has recently been made public, exposing the grim realities faced by women in the industry, particularly in the aftermath of a high-profile sexual assault case in 2017.
Shocking Incident Revealed
One of the most disturbing revelations in the report involves an actress who was allegedly forced to perform a hugging scene with an actor who had previously sexually assaulted her. The actress, cast as the man’s wife, struggled through 17 retakes, unable to complete the scene due to the emotional trauma. The report highlights her ordeal, stating, “On the next day onwards she had to work with the same man as husband and wife hugging each other. That was terrible because of what was done to her during the shooting, and her resentment and hatred had reflected during shooting.”
2017 Assault Case and Formation of the Committee
The report traces its origins to a horrific incident in 2017, when a prominent actress was sexually assaulted. This led the Kerala government to establish a three-member commission to investigate the issues plaguing the industry. The committee was chaired by retired Justice K Hema, with former bureaucrat KB Valsalakumari and veteran actress Sharada as the other members.
Sexism and Misconceptions in the Industry
The committee’s findings paint a grim picture of the prevailing attitudes towards women in the Malayalam film industry. The report notes that there is a widespread assumption that women enter the film industry solely for fame and money, and are therefore expected to compromise their dignity. “In cinema, there is a general assumption that women come to cinema to make money and she will surrender to anything. The men in cinema cannot even imagine that it is because of their passion for art and acting that a woman comes to the movie,” the report states.
Silent Suffering and Fear of Retaliation
The report also sheds light on the silent suffering of women in the industry. Many endure harassment and exploitation without speaking out, fearing retaliation or being labelled as ‘troublemakers.’ One witness confirmed that while other women may have had similar experiences, they are too scared to voice their concerns. “Women who are passionate about acting will be suffering all the atrocities, silently,” the report notes.
Widespread Issues: Harassment, Lack of Facilities, and Pay Disparity
Beyond individual cases of harassment, the report also highlights systemic issues such as the lack of basic facilities for women, including toilets and changing rooms on film sets. It also points to significant pay disparities and gender-based discrimination within the industry.
The Consequences of Speaking Out
The committee report further discusses the severe consequences faced by women who dare to speak out against injustice. Survivors often face ostracization from the industry, along with vicious cyberbullying and trolling. These factors contribute to a culture of silence, making it even harder for women to come forward with their complaints.
A Harrowing Account of the Casting Couch Reality
The report also delves into the notorious casting couch phenomenon, providing a chilling account of the lengths to which women are expected to go to secure roles in the industry. The revelations in Justice Hema’s report offer a stark and disturbing view of the challenges faced by women in the Malayalam film industry, making it a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the systemic issues at play.
Justice Hema’s committee report is a sobering reminder of the dark realities that still exist behind the glitz and glamour of the film industry. The detailed accounts of harassment, discrimination, and the challenges faced by women in cinema call for urgent action to ensure a safer and more equitable environment for all.