The sexual exploitation of women within the Malayalam film industry is a harrowing issue that refuses to stay hidden beneath the silver screen’s glamour. It is a disturbing phenomenon closely mirrored by the disturbingly similar reactions from social media ‘fans,’ whose vitriolic comments reveal a deeply ingrained patriarchal mindset. Social media ‘moralists’ impose rigid, procrustean roles on others, staunchly defending patriarchal norms that echo the tyrannical governance witnessed in autocratic societies. Against this formidable backdrop, several actresses have bravely spoken out, often disregarding the potential repercussions.
An underlying attitude of women being perceived merely as sex objects by those in power exacerbates the problem. The dual forces of wealthy entitlement and widespread victim-shaming on social media create an environment where men are perceived as infallible while women are held accountable for the violence inflicted upon them.
Tragically, victim-blaming is not an isolated occurrence but rather a pervasive mindset. Even figures of authority, such as award-winning actress Sarada, who was a member of the Justice Hema Committee, have implied that the sexual exploitation women face might be partially self-inflicted. Sarada attributed some of these issues to the influence of Western culture and the increasing openness within societal interactions. Such statements suggesting that victims themselves are responsible for their plight are not only erroneous but outright revolting.
The Justice Hema Committee’s report brings to light an egregious differentiation between ‘girls’ and ‘women,’ often suggesting the casting couch ultimatum as a prerequisite for job opportunities. Such language not only highlights a systemic issue of exploitation but also reveals an alarming presence of paedophiles within the industry. The grim reality for those at the lower echelons of this industry’s hierarchy is even more disheartening, as outlined by the report, which likens the treatment of junior artistes to that of slaves.
While the 290-page report offers detailed insights into this deeply rooted issue, it presents a distressing read. The term ‘Me-Too’ might have gained traction as a movement, but it often falls short of capturing the true horror of these crimes. Let us not avoid calling these atrocities by their rightful name: rape.
. The report unveiled that one prominent actor went so far as to outsource rape, further augmenting the trauma for the victim while the perpetrator continues his career unperturbed.
The Malayalam film industry is celebrated for its intelligent filmmaking, often handling complex subjects with skillful delicacy. Films like “Aatam,” which won the national award for the best film, address ambiguities about molestation and the ensuing difficulty in proving guilt. However, the industry’s artistic prowess starkly contrasts with the moral decay within its corridors.
The report mentions a ‘lobby’ and ‘mafia’ within the industry, suggesting that these exploiters are well-known and continue to operate freely. According to an industry insider, more perpetrators are likely to be exposed even as criminal cases start to pile up.
However, unease pervades this narrative, largely because heinous crimes within this industry, and others, often appear to be shielded by political influences, whether in Kerala or other states like Bengal or Uttar Pradesh. This political cushioning provides an alarming sense of impunity to the culprits, further emboldening them. Much like privileged businessmen, certain rapists and sexual predators within the acting community are acutely aware of their undue protection.
The Justice Hema Committee has laid out solutions that might seem paltry on the surface, yet the issues it targets are starkly real. By transitioning mere whispers into formally recorded complaints, the committee has shed light on what was previously relegated to the shadows of gossip. Although exposing these crimes is a significant step forward, the question persists: will justice ever truly be served?
The Malayalam film industry, like many parts of society, finds itself at a critical juncture where cultural reverence must give way to ethical accountability. The brave voices of actresses speaking up should be a clarion call for systemic change rather than a whisper in the wind. Criminals, regardless of their societal standing or achievements, deserve due punishment. But as the battle for justice continues, one is left to wonder when, or if, the scales of justice will ever be balanced.
