Veteran Malayalam actress Charmila has added her voice to the ongoing debate about sexual exploitation in the film industry, alleging that she was sexually assaulted by a film producer approximately 27 years ago.
Charmila recounted the alleged incident, stating that it occurred during the filming of ‘Arjunan Pillayum Anchu Makkalum’ in Pollachi, Tamil Nadu. After wrapping up a three-day shoot, Charmila was asked to meet the producer before leaving. Concerned for her safety, she insisted that her assistants accompany her. However, the production manager allegedly prevented the assistants from joining her.
Despite this, Charmila persisted and went to the producer’s room. There, she claimed, she encountered a group of men, some of whom were intoxicated. A man allegedly lunged at one of her assistants, attempting to remove her saree, while another man approached Charmila. When her male assistant intervened to protect her, he was allegedly beaten.
Charmila further stated that another man grabbed her hand, prompting her to bite him and escape from the room. She sought help from auto-rickshaw drivers who assisted her in contacting her father. He, in turn, contacted Rajathi Ammal, wife of the late Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, leading to police intervention.
Charmila also revealed that she lost roles in 28 films due to her refusal to comply with industry demands, often euphemistically referred to as ‘adjusting’, which implied engaging in sexual favors in exchange for work.
She also described another incident involving Malayalam director Hariharan, who reportedly asked her to ‘adjust’ after a meeting regarding a potential film. When Charmila refused, through actor Vishnu, the offer was withdrawn.
In contrast to her experiences in the Malayalam film industry, Charmila praised the Tamil film industry and its Nadigar Sangam (actors’ association) for providing a safer environment for female artistes. She expressed her belief that the Tamil industry is more supportive and protective of actresses.
Charmila’s allegations have reignited the conversation surrounding exploitation and abuse in the Malayalam film industry, prompting calls for greater accountability and a safer working environment for all artists.
