Malayalam actress Usha recently opened up about a disturbing incident from 1992 when a senior actor misbehaved with her during a project in the Gulf. This revelation came amidst the ongoing discussions about misconduct in the film industry, echoing the sentiments of the #MeToo movement that has gained momentum worldwide.
In a press meet held in Kannur, Kerala, Usha detailed her harrowing experience with a senior actor who, according to her, made an unsolicited advance in an elevator. The project involved several prominent actors, including Mohanlal, who later comforted Usha after the incident.
The Incident in Detail
Usha recalled that the team was working on a show in Bahrain. After the show, they were waiting to head to the airport. Mohanlal, being a senior and well-respected figure, suggested that the team gather their belongings and wait in the hall, where they could sit and chat. It was in this setting that Usha's ordeal unfolded.
"As I was taking my luggage to the elevator, the actor who misbehaved with me entered the elevator. He asked if we were going down, and I responded affirmatively," Usha recounted. "Once the elevator door closed, he behaved very inappropriately with me. I was shocked and immediately hit him in response. By the time the elevator reached the next floor, I was furious and ready to confront him."
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The Aftermath of Speaking Out
The actress, who was relatively new in the industry at that time, did not stay silent. She chose to voice her experience to the other team members, including Mohanlal and actress Sukumari. "Actor Sukumari noticed something was wrong and asked me what had happened. I explained everything, including my intention to inform everyone about the incident," Usha said.
Mohanlal, who is often affectionately referred to as 'Lalettan' in the Malayalam film industry, came to know of the incident soon after. According to Usha, Mohanlal comforted her and said she had done the right thing by standing up for herself. "Both Lalettan and Sukumari were very supportive. They said that my reaction was justified, and they stood by me," Usha recalled.
However, this support did not shield Usha from the repercussions she faced in the industry. After she reported the incident, she was labeled as "arrogant" and was soon ostracized by many. "I was called arrogant because I dared to speak out against a senior actor," Usha lamented. "Eventually, the offers stopped coming, and I was sidelined."
Why Speak Out Now?
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Some might wonder why Usha chose to bring up this incident now, more than three decades later. To this, she responded, "A video of the incident has surfaced now. Some might ask why I’m bringing this up now. I reacted to it immediately at that time, and I'm speaking about it again because it's important for people to know the truth."
The resurfacing of the video has shed light on an incident that many had forgotten or perhaps were unaware of. It has sparked conversations about the pervasive issue of misconduct in the film industry, even in the Malayalam cinema, which has often been perceived as more disciplined and respectful compared to its counterparts.
A Broader Impact on the Industry
Usha’s revelation comes at a crucial time when the film industry globally is re-examining its culture, especially concerning the treatment of women. The Malayalam industry, too, has had its share of controversies, and Usha’s account adds to the narrative that misconduct and abuse of power have long been an issue, transcending time and geographical boundaries.
Her story also aligns with the recent resignation of Mohanlal from his position as President of AMMA (Association of Malayalam Movie Artists). Shortly after Usha's revelation, Mohanlal stepped down, leading to further speculation about the impact of these revelations. AMMA announced that it would disband its executive committee on moral grounds and form a new committee following elections in two months.
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