On August 2024, superstar Mohanlal had willingly resigned from the post of the president at the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA), days after the release of the Hema Committee report. In fact, the whole association was dissolved amid backlash and criticisms. Many claimed that it did not do much to protect artistes against harassment and sexual abuse. While Mohanlal had quietly resigned back then, he recently spoke about the aftermath.
In an interview with Asianet News, Mohanlal shared that he did not resign due to the criticisms faced by the association. He noted that he had a different reason to step down. Mohanlal further added that he resigned when he felt was the right time for him. He said, “I faced a lot of criticism. Suddenly, we became enemies to many people. But the resignations were not because of the criticism. I resigned when I felt it was time to put a full stop.”
Moreover, the actor stated that he hopes individuals who parted ways with AMMA due to differences would consider returning. The actor further added that he does not see his exit from the organisation as a “defeat.” He opened up about leaving as a “natural transition” which helped Shwetha Menon take over as president. Mohanlal also lauded the change of a woman taking up the most important role in the organisation.
When did Mohanlal serve as the president of AMMA?
For those unaware, the superstar served as the president for two consecutive terms. He was in the leadership position from 2018 to 2021 and 2021 to 2024. Interestingly, he was supposed to continue till 2027 but resigned midway. He also did not compete in the elections that happened in 2025.
What was the Hema Committee report?
Justice Hema Committee, formed in 2017, had released a detailed report on August 19, 2024. The report detailed horrifying tales of discrimination and sexual harassment of women in the Malayalam film industry. The committee comprised retired High Court Justice K. Hema, former actor Sharada and retired IAS officer K.B. Valsala Kumari.
The committee was officially formed after they came across a petition from the Kerala-based Women in Cinema Collective’s (WCC). The committee delved into issues of sexual harassment and gender inequality in the Malayalam film industry. Having said that, the WCC was also formed after a Malayalam actress spoke about being abducted and sexually assaulted in Kochi. The investigation for the case, conducted by Kerala Police, focused on Malayalam actor Dileep.
The Hema Committee report also noted that sexual favours have long been perceived as a means of gaining access to the Malayalam film industry. Moreover, the harassment experiences weren’t limited to actors but also affected women who worked as makeup artists, dancers, technicians and support members.
After the release of the Hema Committee report, many actresses from the industry opened up about the sexual abuse that they faced.
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