Mumbai: Charmila, an Indian actress who has carved a niche in Kerala films, has recently disclosed that she is experiencing intolerable sexual harassment from as many as 28 people in the industry.
X-Rays Of Charmila’s Revelations And Her Experiences
The revelations of Charmila came out after the Hema Committee report, where almost all aspects of sexual harassment in the Malayalam movie industry were put to the shine. This prompted some actresses to come forward and report such impunity that they have been drawn to by their workmates and industry people.
According to Charmila, her ordeal began 27 years ago with harassment and an attempt to rape her. She shared instances from a particular year: 1997, the shooting of a film. Charmila claimed that the producer asked for her, and she was summoned. I arrived only to be confronted with the rather unpleasant sight of a producer and his lackeys not only physically assaulting her assistant but attempting to maul her as well.
Being physically threatened and feeling a helplessness about having her family, Charmila was quick to contact the police and her father regarding the episode. It is possible that such prompt action prevented more damage, but acute distress and stress were experienced.
The Price of Refusing to “Adjust”
Also, Sharmila uncovered one rather disturbing aspect of the industry culture: actresses are often expected to adjust to the men’s system. The word ‘adjust’ is not a word adjusted but an opaque instruction directed to actresses to sleep with certain people to up their chances of getting a particular role.
Charmila maintained that it was normal for her to be taken off film assignments whenever she faced criticism for failing to “adjust.” Because she refused to meet such demands, she was treated as though she was a pariah in the industry. With proof and conviction, she claimed her career was adversely affected because she was never prepared to ‘play ball.’
A Second Incident: Director Hariharan’s Misconduct
In one such happening, Charmila was all praise for a reputed name in the Malayalam industry – Hariharan. She also alleged that once, during the shooting of a picture, director Hariharan coaxed her to consider an “adjustment.” In another instance, after turning down his advances, Sharmila, along with another co-star who supported her, was removed from the project. This episode has shown once more the exploitation and power abuse that pervades the industry.
The actress had not claimed these things in vain. As her actor co actor Vishnu stepped out to provide support to Charmila’s allegations. It also indicates the extent of the cultural problems in the industry, Vishnu’s backing reveals. Others share or have seen what they have seen in the industry.
The Hema Committee Report and Its Consequences
The report of the Hema committee came out a little while before the statements made by Charmila. Indicated officially that there was sexual abuse in the Malayalam film industry. The report made it clear that several women, especially actresses in the industry, suffer from harassment. And worst of all, some of the most prominent faces in the industry are involved in these cases.
Finally, the report’s results have been issued. A series of reforms on a national level are sought to protect women. Who works in the domain of film? Now, there is increasing pressure to put in place stricter laws and maybe establish conditions under them. Which women will work without risking harassment or any other form of exploitation?
By being brave enough to share her experiences openly. Charmila has brought to light one of the worst-kept secrets of the Malayalam Film Industry. With her disclosures and the outcome of the Hema Committee, a long conversation about the issue was finally sparked. It is still unknown what decisions the industry will make regarding. These very serious claims to protect its members in the future.
