The Malayalam film industry is once again under scrutiny after Tamil actress Radikaa Sarathkumar revealed that she discovered hidden cameras in vanity vans on a film set in Kerala. Sarathkumar alleges that these cameras were used to secretly record women changing clothes, with footage being stored in a database accessible to crew members.
Sarathkumar shared her experience during an interview with Asianet News’ “Namaste Kerala.” She recounted walking past a group of crew members who were laughing and watching a video. Upon inquiry, she was shocked to learn that the video was footage of actresses changing in their private spaces. “I saw the video,” she said, expressing her disbelief and outrage. “I was told you just type the name of the artiste, and you will find a video of them changing dress.”
The actress did not disclose the location or the name of the project where this incident occurred, citing a reluctance to accuse individuals publicly. “If we spit looking upwards, it will fall on our face only. So I don’t want to take names,” she stated. However, she did reveal that she confronted the crew about the hidden cameras and was assured that the issue would be addressed. Despite this, Sarathkumar reported feeling unsafe and anxious about returning to her vanity van, which is supposed to be a private space for changing, resting, or eating.
These allegations come amidst a broader reckoning in the Malayalam film industry following the release of the Justice Hema Committee report, which exposed widespread sexual harassment within the industry. The report’s findings have emboldened several actresses to come forward with their own stories of abuse and harassment. In recent days, allegations have surfaced against notable figures, including CPI(M) MLA and actor Mukesh, actor Jayasurya, and Edavela Babu, for sexual and verbal assault.
The fallout from the report has been significant, leading to resignations within the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA). Prominent actor Mohanlal resigned as the president of the association, along with all 17 members of the executive committee, in what appears to be a collective acknowledgment of the need for change.
