Samantha Sarathkumar, a prominent actress in South Indian cinema, has recently made shocking claims about the dark side of the Malayalam film industry. In light of the Hema Committee report, which unveiled numerous allegations of sexual harassment and casting couch practices involving major actors and filmmakers, the industry is currently under intense scrutiny. Amidst these revelations, several artists are coming forward with their experiences, and Sarathkumar’s statements have particularly caught public attention.
Unveiling the Dark Side of the Industry
Radhika Sarathkumar, who has an extensive career spanning Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and even Hindi cinema, recounted a disturbing incident that occurred on a film set in Kerala. She stated that hidden cameras were installed in the actresses’ vanity vans to record them while changing their clothes. This alarming incident not only shocked her but also instilled a fear of using the vanity van, pushing her to seek alternative places to change her outfits.
“They Just Need Your Name to Access the Videos”
In an interview with Asianet, Radhika detailed her experience of overhearing laughter among crew members who were watching a video. Curious, she approached a crew member to inquire about what was so humorous. The crew member revealed that they were viewing footage captured from hidden cameras placed inside the vanity van, which recorded women while changing. Radhika was further alarmed when she learned that merely writing down an artist’s name could provide access to these illicit recordings.
Impact on Personal Space and Professional Relationships
Radhika shared that after discovering the existence of hidden cameras, she engaged in a heated argument with the vanity team, expressing her outrage over the invasion of privacy. She vehemently declared that if she found any cameras in her vanity van, she would resort to physical measures to ensure her safety. The heightened anxiety made her wary of using the vanity van altogether, prompting her to change clothes in her hotel room instead. She also communicated this grave situation to her fellow actors, ensuring they were aware of potential security breaches in their private spaces.
Radhika’s Longevity in the Industry
With nearly 46 years in the film industry, Radhika’s career commenced in 1978 with the Telugu romantic drama “Kizhakke Pogum Rail.” She continued to make significant contributions to cinema, including her role in the 1986 film “Nasib Apna Apna” alongside the renowned actor Rishi Kapoor. Given her rich history in the industry, her haunting experiences emphasize the urgent need for reform and protection of artists’ rights within the Malayalam film industry.
The Hema Committee Report: A Call to Action
The Hema Committee report has shed light on the grave nature of sexual harassment faced by women in the Malayalam film industry. Released on August 19, this comprehensive report has ignited discussions on the accountability of filmmakers and the need for stronger protections for artists. Radhika questioned the delay in the dissemination of such critical information, highlighting the necessity of swift action to address these issues.
