Sandra Thomas slams Listin Stephen: 'Don't let a usurer's secret plan trap Malayalam cinema'

Time of India

04-05-2025

Producer
Sandra Thomas
has publicly condemned
, accusing him of aligning with external
financial interests
and attempting to monopolize control over the industry.
What's the issue?
Sandra Thomas' fiery statement comes in response to Listin Stephen's controversial remarks made during the promotional event of 'Prince and Family', the 150th film of actor Dileep.
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Without naming names, Listin had hinted at a leading Malayalam actor, alleging that he had 'lit the fuse to a huge mistake' which could escalate into a bigger crisis. 'It's like lighting a massive firecracker. That was unnecessary,' Listin said, adding, 'What he did was a serious mistake, and I'm reminding him of that. This should not continue. It will cause major issues if it does.'
Sandra Thomas' Facebook post
Sandra Thomas, in a detailed Facebook post, strongly rebuked Listin Stephen's comments and broader intentions, writing, 'Please, a humble request – Listin Stephen should not support the usurer's secret plan to trap
in his fist.
We earnestly urge that Listin Stephen should not commit the grave mistake of handing over the Malayalam film industry to a Tamil Nadu-based moneylender's misguided financial interests.'
'Speech is part of a secretive plot'
She emphasized Listin's current influential roles as the President of the Distributors' Association and Treasurer of the
Producers' Association
, stating that he is entrusted with the responsibility to uplift the Malayalam film industry — not manipulate it.
'Even his recent intimidating speech during a film's promotional event is seen as part of this secretive plot,' she alleged.
Slams Producers' Association
Sandra also criticized the Producers' Association's recent move to release only theatre-based box office data, claiming it's a ploy to discourage investments.
'The Producers' Association's recent move to release box office figures showing only the revenue from theatres… is part of a calculated strategy to scare off genuine investors,' she said.
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Calling for introspection and reform, Sandra urged the industry to stand up against monopolistic control. 'Listin Stephen should make an effort to introspect and stand up for the well-being of the Malayalam film industry and our state,' she appealed.