Hyderabad: A significant legal case has been emerged in the Telugu film industry as an FIR has been filed against on renowned choreographer Jani Master. The complaint, lodged by a former colleague, accuses him of the multiple incidents of sexual assault spanning on several years.
The allegations detail that the harassment began when the complainant was still a minor. This alarming revelation has led to a formal case against Jani Master, who has an impressive portfolio, having choreographed for major films such as “Baahubali” and “Pushpa: The Rise.”
According to the woman, the incidents of sexual assault occurred on various film shoots in different cities, creating a pattern of abuse that has deeply impacted her. In her statement, she emphasized the repeated nature of the assaults and expressed her concerns for her safety. The complainant revealed that Jani Master allegedly threatened her, claiming that if she spoke out or resisted, she would be blacklisted in the industry and denied future work opportunities.
Feeling compelled to take action, the woman initially approached the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce to report her experiences. The organization has established a committee specifically designed to address sexual harassment issues within the film industry. Jhansi, an actor and the chairperson of this panel, confirmed to NDTV that the allegations are particularly grave due to the fact that the complainant was a minor when the abuse commenced. This detail invokes provisions under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, which mandates strict legal actions against such offenses.
Choreographer Jani Master Booked After Ex-Colleague's Complaint Of Sexual Assault
The film chamber took the allegations seriously and advised the complainant to file a police report. In response to the situation, the organization also reached out to the Telugu Dance Directors’ Association, where Jani Master holds the position of president, instructing them to suspend him from performing any official duties pending the investigation.
Following the filing of the FIR, Jani Master has been charged under various sections, including those pertaining to rape and criminal intimidation. These charges reflect the seriousness of the accusations and the legal implications he faces as the investigation unfolds.
As the news of these allegations spreads, the Telugu film community is abuzz with reactions. Many individuals within the industry are expressing solidarity with the complainant, emphasizing the importance of addressing sexual harassment and fostering a safe working environment for all artists. The case has sparked conversations about the systemic issues of abuse and power dynamics prevalent in the film industry, urging many to reconsider the support structures in place for those who might find themselves in similar situations.
In a further twist, Jani Master is also a member of the Jana Sena party, which is led by Pawan Kalyan and is currently part of the ruling coalition in Andhra Pradesh. The party has responded to the unfolding situation by requesting that Jani Master refrain from attending any party events while the investigation is ongoing. This decision indicates the party’s awareness of the gravity of the allegations and their intent to distance themselves from potential fallout associated with the case.
The implications of this case extend beyond the individuals involved; it highlights the need for systemic change within the entertainment industry. Many advocates are calling for stricter enforcement of policies that protect workers from harassment and abuse, emphasizing that the safety of individuals must be prioritized above all else.
As the investigation progresses, the film industry and the public at large are watching closely. The outcome of this case could set important precedents for how similar allegations are handled in the future, as well as how the industry navigates the complex issues of power, consent, and accountability.
The complainant’s courage to come forward is being hailed as a crucial step in challenging the status quo and fostering a culture where individuals feel empowered to speak out against abuse. In an industry often characterized by its glamour and glitz, these serious allegations serve as a stark reminder of the darker realities that can lie beneath the surface.
Ultimately, the unfolding situation surrounding Jani Master and the accusations against him may pave the way for broader conversations about the treatment of women and vulnerable individuals within the film industry. The coming weeks will be pivotal as both the legal proceedings and the public discourse around this case develop, with the potential to instigate meaningful changes that prioritize safety and respect for all workers in the field.
Telugu choreographer Jani Master booked for repeated rape of ex-assistant
Jani Master, a renowned Telugu film choreographer, is facing serious allegations. A 21-year-old former assistant has accused him of repeated rape, harassment, and physical abuse during film shoots in Chennai, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and her residence in Narsingi ¹. The alleged abuse began in 2017 when the victim was a minor, and Jani Master reportedly demanded sexual favors, threatened her, and even pressured her to convert to his religion and marry him.
The victim also claims that Jani Master used his industry influence to hinder her job opportunities and vandalized her property. A case has been registered under Sections 376 (2)(n), 506, and 323 of the Indian Penal Code, and the police are investigating ¹.
Jani Master has worked on over 80 films, including “Eega,” “Jai Ho,” “Baahubali: The Beginning,” and “Geetha Govindam,” collaborating with prominent stars ¹. He recently received a National Award for his work on “Megam Karukkatha” from the 2022 film “Thiruchitrambalam.”
In light of these allegations, the Jana Sena Party has directed Jani Master to stay away from party activities ¹. The Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce has also convened an Internal Grievance Committee to investigate the matter, following the guidelines of the POSH Act, 2013 ² ³.