The green carpet ahead of the IIFA Utsavam awards at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on September 27, 2024, wasn’t only about glamour. Some noted celebrities took on pertinent questions from the media even as they posed for photographs, showcasing their stylish attires.
While the celebrities sparkled on the green carpet, serious issues took the spotlight. It’s been over a month since the Justice K Hema Committee report rattled the Malayalam industry and became a talking point across film industries. The report underscored glaring gaps in women’s safety and exposed the entrenched patriarchy within the film fraternity. This has led to a broader conversation about the role of women in Indian cinema, shedding light on the urgent need for change.
Veteran actress Shabana Azmi, commemorating her illustrious 50-year career in cinema, was vocal about the challenges women continue to face. “You must understand that women in India have had their journey across centuries. From the 16th to the 21st, women progressed but got suppressed at the same time,” said Shabana Azmi, emphasizing that the journey towards gender equality in the industry is far from complete. She pointed out that the patriarchal mindset still prevents women from achieving their full potential. “In the film industry, this mindset affects every aspect – from opportunities to respect on set.”
Speaking from personal experience, seasoned actor Meena, known for her roles in Tamil and Malayalam cinema, offered a slightly different perspective. “People have opened up about their individual experiences. Fortunately, I haven’t encountered anything negative in the industry,” she stated. However, Meena acknowledged that her experience is not universal and that many women in the industry do face challenges.
Malayalam actor Shine Tom Chacko, known for his controversial statements and antics, expressed his frustration at the focus on the Justice Hema Committee report during the event. “You can’t talk about a death at a wedding ceremony. It’s common sense. I am not here to discuss that (Hema Committee report),” he said, indicating his reluctance to engage with the issue at the celebratory event. His reaction highlighted the discomfort and resistance among some in the industry to address such pressing issues publicly.
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Conversely, Priyamani, a multilingual actor, stressed the importance of safety on film sets, based on her own experiences. “My mother or sister would come along with me for shoots till very recently. I felt secure in their presence. We need additional security for women on sets. If the film cannot ensure security, we must ensure someone from our family accompanies us,” said the actor. Her words underscored the extra precautions necessary for women to feel safe in their workplace, reinforcing the need for structural changes within the industry.
Veteran actor Nasser, known for his contributions to Indian cinema, advocated for a strict code of conduct to protect women. “When I started, people were only concerned about the physical safety of artists. Today, even the mental health of an artist is important. There must be strict rules about how one must behave with women,” he stated. Nasser’s comments highlighted the evolution in understanding the multifaceted nature of safety and respect, stressing the necessity for comprehensive policies to safeguard artists’ well-being.
As the night progressed, and awards were handed out, it was clear that the glamorous celebration was juxtaposed against a backdrop of significant industry introspection. The Justice Hema Committee report has undeniably set the stage for difficult but necessary conversations about women’s safety and respect in Indian cinema.
Celebrities mingling on the green carpet may have appeared to bask in the dazzle of the IIFA Utsavam awards, but their statements and reactions brought underlying issues to the forefront. It became evident that while applause and accolades were being distributed, there was a shared recognition that the industry must confront its less glamorous realities.
The conversation initiated by the Justice Hema Committee report signifies just the beginning. Industry veterans like Shabana Azmi, Nasser, and stars like Priyamani and Meena, through their varied perspectives, are pivotal in driving this dialogue forward. Whether by sharing personal experiences, advocating for stricter conduct codes, or calling for enhanced security, their voices embody the collective push towards a safer and more equitable workplace.
As the event drew to a close, the IIFA Utsavam 2024 will be remembered not solely for its celebration of cinematic achievements but also as a landmark moment sparking essential discourse on women’s safety in India’s film industry.
Published – September 28, 2024, 03:22 pm IST
Indian cinema / entertainment (general) / arts, culture, and entertainment / Malayalam cinema
