Prithviraj on Hema report, #MeToo movement in Malayalam cinema: 'Serious lapses in the functioning of AMMA'

Malayalam superstar Prithviraj addressed the media on Monday, candidly sharing his thoughts on the explosive Hema Committee report that has cast a long shadow over the Malayalam film industry. The report, which highlights rampant sexual exploitation of young women and alleges the existence of a powerful lobby controlling the industry's happenings, has prompted a wave of reactions and revelations.

Prithviraj expressed his hope that the findings of the report would lead to significant changes in the industry, eliminating bad practices and creating a safer environment. "I don't know what impact the Hema Committee report will have on the industry. But, whatever the impact, it's necessary," he stated. "All allegations need to be investigated, and if proven true, exemplary actions must be taken. If the allegations were false, then those who made them should also face action."

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The actor was one of the first to speak to the Hema Committee during its investigation, emphasizing his commitment to addressing the issues raised. "I am hopeful that this report will provide a comprehensive view of all issues faced by women and create a safe working environment for everyone," he added. "I am also looking forward to seeing what will happen next on this matter."

In the wake of the report, serious questions have been raised about the role the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA), a powerful organization in the film industry, plays in safeguarding the vulnerable members of the fraternity. Responding to a question related to AMMA, Prithviraj said, "No doubt, there has been a serious lapse in the functioning of AMMA."

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He noted that while he had not personally encountered the so-called "power lobby" described in the report, he recognized the need to listen to those who had. "I cannot vouch for the non-existence of this power group. I have not faced them in my career; I was not affected by that power group," he said. "If there are people who suffered from this 'power group,' we must hear those grievances, and we must dismantle it. But, to say that there is a power group like that, I must have experienced that."

Since the release of the Hema Committee report, several actresses have come forward to share their experiences of sexual harassment at the hands of powerful men in the industry. Prithviraj's call for accountability and reform reflects a growing demand for change in the Malayalam film industry, as more voices speak out against its long-standing issues.

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