The glamorous green carpet rolled out ahead of the IIFA Utsavam awards ceremony at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on September 27, 2024, was about much more than just sparkling attire and flashing cameras. As admired celebrities sashayed down the emerald aisle, they took a moment to address some pressing concerns raised by the media, shedding light on significant issues beyond the usual glitz and glamour associated with such events.
One topic that dominated the conversations was the Justice K Hema Committee report, which has sent ripples through the Malayalam film industry and beyond since its release a month ago. The report, which addresses grave concerns regarding women’s safety and the treatment of female artists within the industry, has sparked serious discussions across various quarters.
Veteran actress Shabana Azmi, celebrating an illustrious 50 years in the realm of cinema, voiced her thoughts on the ongoing discourse with a sense of urgency and gravity. “As far as treating women with respect is concerned, the industry still has a long way to go,” Azmi articulated, emphasizing the broader context by saying, “You must understand that women in India have had their journey across centuries. From the 16th to 21st, women progressed but got suppressed at the same time,” she highlighted. Azmi condemned the patriarchal structures that have historically impeded women from achieving their full potential and urged for systemic change.
Seasoned actress Meena, known for her acclaimed roles in Tamil and Malayalam cinema, provided a personal perspective. “People have opened up about their individual experiences. Fortunately, I haven’t encountered anything negative in the industry,” she shared, acknowledging the varied experiences of women in the industry while subtly hinting at the importance of sharing and addressing each individual’s journey and concerns.
Meanwhile, the always controversial Malayalam actor Shine Tom Chacko expressed his displeasure at the media’s probing questions regarding the Hema Committee report. “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 remarked tersely, signaling his reluctance to delve into the subject during the celebratory event.
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Priyamani, a multilingual actor making waves in various regional industries, brought attention to the paramount importance of safety on film sets. “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,” she advised, stressing the need for additional support systems to ensure the well-being of female artists.
Veteran actor Nasser underscored the necessity of a robust ethical framework within the film industry, emphasizing that the concerns go beyond physical safety. “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 asserted, highlighting the mental dimension of safety that needs addressing with equal seriousness.
The discussions at the event echoed the sentiments of the wider community that is calling for sustained and meaningful reforms in the film industry to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all its members, particularly women.
An event known for its splendor and entertainment, the IIFA Utsavam offered a poignant reminder this year of the ongoing efforts needed to foster a more equitable and secure space for women in cinema. The committee report has indeed acted as a much-needed catalyst, stimulating conversations that could pave the way for transformative changes in the industry.
As the evening continued, celebrities and stakeholders from various facets of the cinema world appeared unified in their pledge to continue advocating for a respectful and safe working environment for all. The presence of such prominent voices speaking up for these essential reforms at a high-profile event like the IIFA Utsavam amplified the message further, holding a mirror up to the industry and urging everyone involved to contribute to the solutions.
Published – September 28, 2024 03:22 pm IST
Indian cinema / entertainment (general) / arts, culture and entertainment / Malayalam cinema
