‘Only Malayalam cinema woke up to gender reforms'

Time of India

2 days ago

Gender activist and chair professor, school of public health, DY Patil University, Navi Mumbai, Dr Lakshmi Lingam speaks to TOI on why safety, fairness and diversity remain elusive for women in the film industry
What is your opinion on struggles for gender equality in the Malayalam film industry?
Gender discrimination and harassment are widespread in the Indian film industry, though challenges differ across regions. The Malayalam industry has shown courage in addressing these issues openly.
The formation of the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC), the Hema Committee, and the publication of its report are trailblazing moves, among the first of their kind in the country. When women from other industries spoke out, it became clear that problems—harassment, sidelining, casting-couch situations—were universal.
Yet only Malayalam cinema woke up. Even in Telangana, when an actress protested publicly after harassment, little systemic change followed. Infrastructure like Internal Complaints Committees, childcare facilities, safe work schedules and equal wages remains largely absent.
What about the #MeToo movement and recent revelations? Did they make a difference?
During #MeToo, many women came forward, but tangible outcomes were minimal. Victim blaming is rampant, with questions about attire, intentions, or consensual relations. Survivors often doubt themselves.
In both home and work environments, abuse cycles persist: Perpetrators apologize, blame stress or alcohol, and the cycle repeats. Harassment is sometimes reframed as romance gone wrong, damaging careers.
Public harassment also persists, and family restrictions often prevent women from seeking legal recourse. A cultural shift, mainstreaming women's rights, is essential.
What basic facilities are missing for women in the industry?
The industry thrives on exploitation. Labour laws are rarely enforced across the 40 verticals of filmmaking. Male stars have vanity vans; junior female artists lack clean toilets. Irregular hours and low pay force pregnant women out of technical roles. Many work without contracts, some as unpaid interns.
Families invest in film education, yet young workers struggle to earn. Junior artists' unions remain largely silent and foreign dancers are sometimes hired at lower costs. Films are made for profit, but workers bear the brunt of flops. Even men face casting-couch pressures.
Why do senior stars remain silent on gender issues?
Top stars are diplomatic, though they advocate for social campaigns like polio or Swachh Bharat. They should similarly speak out on respecting women. Senior leaders must promote gender sensitivity and diversity.
Currently, 75% of film characters are men; women remain underrepresented. Including trans people, persons with disabilities, and varied social backgrounds would make films more reflective of real society.
Some producers say they avoid hiring women due to harassment complaints. Your thoughts?
This is discriminatory. Excluding women does not solve the problem. Clear codes of conduct and guidelines recognizing power relations are necessary. Professions must exercise power responsibly, like open-space meetings for PhD supervision. Cinema needs similar systems to maintain boundaries.
Why are intimacy coordinators important?
Modern films feature more intimate scenes. Trained intimacy coordinators ensure comfort and prevent abuse. Contracts should specify the number of kissing scenes, angles, and choreography. Currently, there is only one female intimacy coordinator in India; more are needed.
In what ways do politics and societal trends influence filmmaking in India?
There is a lot of hyper-nationalism and hyper-religiosity now in Indian movies. Many filmmakers avoid sensitive issues to stay away from controversy instead of dealing with them boldly. While trends come and go, well-made films like Laapataa Ladies will always find acceptance.
What's your view on Adoor Gopalakrishnan's comments regarding financial support for SC/ST and women filmmakers?
I'm not fully aware of Adoor Gopalakrishnan's exact statement, but govt funding for filmmakers from disadvantaged backgrounds is a welcome step. Beyond financial support, the govt should offer mentoring, access to editing labs, and a supportive ecosystem to help these filmmakers succeed.
Kerala's govt is preparing a state film policy—what are your thoughts on this move?
It is a strong beginning. Complaint redressal committees must be broad-based and independent, fair wages ensured, hiring non-discriminatory and facilities for women provided across all roles.
Malayalam cinema has strong unions—do they help or hinder the industry?
Kerala's strong unions may deter some investors, but they can drive revolutionary changes. Other states can adopt Mollywood's trade union model.