Following the release of the Hema Committee Report, which addressed sexual harassment in the Malayalam film industry, filmmaker Sudhir Mishra observes significant changes in Bollywood. He expresses confidence in the women currently handling the situation in Mollywood.

Back in 2013, Sudhir Mishra directed “Inkaar,” a film starring Arjun Rampal and Chitrangda Singh, which tackled the issue of sexual harassment within a corporate setting. The narrative follows a CEO’s protégé who files a lawsuit against him. Although discussions about workplace safety for women are not new, recent events have intensified the call for secure working conditions. Notably, the horrific rape-murder case in Kolkata earlier this month has amplified these demands. Subsequently, the Justice K Hema Committee’s report on sexual harassment in the Malayalam film industry has sparked widespread conversation.

Women actors and technicians across various state entertainment industries are once again vocalizing their concerns about sexual assault. Reflecting on the uproar caused by the Hema Committee Report, Mishra shared his thoughts in an exclusive interview with News18 Showsha. He remarked, “I dedicated an entire film to this issue. What more can I say? Many express their views through social media, but as a filmmaker, I choose cinema as my medium.”

Currently awaiting the release of his web series “Tanaav Season 2,” Mishra continues, “Whether it’s the politics of the nation or addressing false propaganda as in my film ‘Afwaah,’ I use cinema to discuss topics that matter to me. Whenever I feel compelled to share my thoughts on exploitation or any pressing issue, I create films to articulate the obvious. ‘Inkaar’ exemplified this approach with its nuanced storytelling.”

Mishra has been in dialogue with founding members of the Women In Cinema Collective to gain insights into the Malayalam film industry’s situation. He notes, “While we discuss the Kerala film industry, there’s a lot we don’t understand about its intricacies. I lack detailed knowledge about what transpired. However, there’s a committee and many responsible individuals involved. I’ve conversed with some women from Kerala who are now overseeing these matters, and I have immense trust in them. Naming them might not be appropriate at this moment.”

Expressing hope for improvements in Mollywood, Mishra comments, “I believe those in charge will manage effectively. Kerala has always shown resilience. While I may not know all specifics, it’s unfair to speculate without adequate knowledge. In Bombay, substantial changes have already taken place, signaling better times ahead.”

In related news, the Women’s Forum for Screen Workers in Bengal’s film industry has issued a charter demanding respect and dignity for women at work. This document was endorsed by 50 actors and technicians. Furthermore, an FIR was filed on August 29 against actor-turned-politician Mukesh and actors Jayasurya and Edavela Babu, following a complaint by actor Minu Muneer concerning intent to outrage a woman’s modesty. In response, a collective of 100 women writers and activists has called for Mukesh’s resignation on moral grounds.