‘MOHANLAL’S RESIGNATION DISAPPOINTING, MAMMOOTTY’S SILENCE SAD’

Sajitha Madathil, actor and one of the founding members of the Women in Cinema Collective, criticises the lack of accountability of key figures in the Malayalam film industry
Mugdha Kapoor (HINDUSTAN TIMES; August 31, 2024)

In the wake of the Hema Committee report’s explosive revelations on August 19, which uncovered a disturbing prevalence of sexual misconduct, casting couch practices and wage disparities, the Malayalam film industry has been grappling with significant issues of harassment and exploitation.

In response, the entire 17-member executive committee of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) that was elected only this June, including president, actor Mohanlal, resigned on August 27. 

To understand the broader implications and reactions, we spoke with Sajitha Madathil, actor and founding member of the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC), who reflects, “Mohanlal’s resignation is disappointing. It appears to be a move to avoid further scrutiny and responsibility. Instead of stepping away, they should have stayed and worked to address these issues.”

‘DISHEARTENING TO SEE INFLUENTIAL FIGURES NOT TAKING A PROACTIVE ROLE’
They are powerful people. Mohanlal is a respectable person in the industry. He should have taken the initiative to clear the situation. We were expecting that. Mammootty never spoke anything about it (Hema Committee report). B Unnikrishnan, actor-director and FEFKA leader, he too never talked about it, just issued a press release. Mammootty’s silence is also very sad.

IMPACT OF MALE-DOMINATED LEADERSHIP
Their actions and statements often reflect a lack of understanding and support for these issues. While some individuals are sensitive, the overall leadership frequently neglects women’s concerns. The dismissive attitudes and public performances against WCC reveal an unwillingness to engage constructively.

While she finds the silence of several veteran actors including Mammootty and B Unnikrishnan disappointing, the actor feels the fallout of the report has led to positive developments in the industry: “In 2017 [when WCC was formed] women didn’t even have the space to discuss these issues. Initially, when we raised concerns about sexual harassment in the industry and sought support for Bhavana (Menon), AMMA and the Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA) dismissed these claims. But now, these issues can’t be ignored.”

She goes on to note that the male-dominated leadership within such bodies “reflects a lack of understanding” on issues such as sexual misconduct and gender equality.

“The shows AMMA does and the statements its members have made in the past, are all very misogynistic. While there are individuals who are sensitive to these issues, the overall leadership often does not prioritize concerns raised by women,” she shares, referring to the lack of accountability and continued silence from veteran actors such as Mohanlal and Mammootty.

As the industry continues to reckon with the rampant abuse artistes face, Madathil tells us that the Hema Committee report has had a significant cultural shift across regional cinema. “Each region has its own pace. While we are making progress, it’s gradual. The reality is that speaking out can sometimes lead to personal repercussions for those involved. Most female artistes who raised their voices are out of the industry now, while the men continue working. It’s challenging, but the important thing is to keep pushing for change. The exposure and discussion are crucial,” she asserts.

What measures should be taken to prevent further harassment? “In 2022, WCC advocated for the establishment of Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) for all film production units. While these committees have not been functioning effectively, proper redressal mechanisms are important. The government and industry insiders must sit together to chart out ways to bring about change,” she replies.