Kozhikode: Following the release of the Hema Committee report, many in the film industry have started speaking openly about various issues. Actress Padmapriya stated that men hold the dominance in the film industry.
Padmapriya emphasized that women have the right to work freely in cinema, adding that more importance is given to stories of male actors. She was speaking at Madappally College in Kozhikode on the topic, “The Same Stories Through a New Lens of Equality and Justice,” in the context of the Hema Committee report.
She highlighted that junior artists over the age of 35 cannot find work, and proper meals are not provided on set. If someone asks for it, they are expected to cooperate. In 2017, a colleague faced a bad experience, which led to the idea of providing legal aid and counseling, Padmapriya said.
Films with female leadership are rare. Even while shooting a scene, actresses’ consent is not taken. During the making of a Tamil film, the director physically assaulted her in front of everyone. Padmapriya also mentioned that a 2022 study by a private agency showed zero female representation in production, direction, and cinematography, but in 2023, this representation rose to 3%.
