Table of Contents
Radika Sarathkumar Reveals Discovery of Hidden Cameras in Vanity Vans During Kerala Film Shoot
Radika Sarathkumar : Veteran Actor Claims Every Female Actor Faces Harassment from Male Colleagues, Citing Numerous Cases from Her Career
Following the release of the K. Hema Committee report, which examined the challenges faced by women in the Malayalam film industry, veteran actor Radhika Sarathkumar has made new allegations reflecting her own troubling experiences on set.
During a recent television interview, Radika Sarathkumar shared a disturbing incident she witnessed while working on a Malayalam film. She revealed that she caught a group of men on the set watching explicit videos of female actors.
These videos were secretly recorded with a hidden camera installed in her vanity van. Sarathkumar’s revelation underscores the serious and invasive issues that female actors face in the industry, highlighting the urgent need for protective measures and accountability to ensure a safer working environment for women in film.
Tamil Actress Radikaa Sarathkumar Makes MASSIVE Claim
While working on a film set in Kerala I noticed a group of people gathered and laughing at something. As I walked by, I saw they were watching a video.
I asked a crew member what they were viewing and he informed me that hidden cameras had been installed in the vanity vans capturing footage of women changing clothes. He explained that by typing the name of an actress one could find videos of her changing.
I was shown one of these videos ” Radhikaa Sarathkumar revealed during an interview with Asianet News’ Namaste Kerala. This disturbing incident highlights serious privacy violations on set.
However the actress chose not to disclose the location of the incident. If we spit while looking up it ends up on our own face,” she explained.
Radhikaa Sarathkumar recalled being “very angry” and afraid to enter her vanity room after the incident. She said “This system is wrong. Once I found out about the hidden cameras I immediately warned other female artists. I was scared to go into my vanity van after that.
It’s supposed to be a private space where we can change, rest or eat.” She emphasized the violation of privacy and the fear it instilled in her highlighting the importance of having secure and confidential spaces for personal use on set.
She then confronted the crew about the hidden cameras and threatened to take action. In response, they assured her that they would investigate the issue.
Recently, several actresses from the Malayalam film industry have bravely shared their disturbing experiences of sexual harassment. Notably complaints have been filed against CPI(M) MLA and actor Mukesh, actor Jayasurya and Edavela Babu for sexual and verbal assault.
These revelations follow the release of the Justice Hema Committee Report earlier this month, which exposed the severe issues faced by women in the industry.
In response to the report’s findings, Mohanlal, the president of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists, shocked many by resigning from his position. Mohanlal’s resignation came as a surprise especially since he had been leading the association along with a 17-member executive committee.
Following his resignation the entire executive committee also submitted their joint resignations. This series of events has brought significant attention to the need for accountability and reform within the industry as the public and media respond to the escalating concerns about harassment and misconduct.
Radhika Sarathkumar questioned why nobody supported Chinmayi Sripada when she spoke out against harassment.
This issue isn’t limited to Malayalam cinema it’s a problem across all industries. While working on a Malayalam film, I discovered men watching videos of actresses changing clothes in their caravans captured by hidden cameras. I was furious and immediately spoke out against it. To address the violation, I decided to stop using caravans altogether,” she said.
Women who enter the cinema industry do so with immense dedication and numerous sacrifices. We have all experienced harassment including myself, from politicians and prominent figures whom I prefer not to name.
When women come forward with complaints, they are often asked for proof—do they expect us to capture these incidents on video? Women are currently battling for their rights and this struggle is evident across various industries.
Just look at the Tamil film industry—has any man publicly addressed these issues or stood in solidarity with the women affected? It’s crucial that we recognize and support the fight for respect and justice in our workplaces,” Radhika said.
In Mollywood, the entire AMMA committee resigned en masse shifting the burden back onto the women who have already suffered so much abuse and lost their careers. Recently, actor Parvathy delivered an outstanding performance alongside Urvashi in Ullozhuku.
When I inquired why she wasn’t receiving awards for her work I was told it was because she speaks out against injustice. It’s disheartening to see such a talented individual being treated this way simply for standing up for what’s right,” Radhika said.
Radhika Sarathkumar on the situation in Tamil film industry
In Tamil cinema Radhika Sarathkumar highlighted the issue of renowned singer Chinmayi’s allegation against National Award-winning lyricist Vairamuthu. Chinmayi had brought this matter to light in 2018 following the global Me Too Movement and faced a shadowban from the Tamil film industry as a consequence.
Radika Sarathkumar emphasized how Chinmayi’s courageous stand against harassment led to her being ostracized underscoring the ongoing challenges faced by women who speak out against powerful figures in the industry.
Chinmayi made serious allegations against someone in the industry but how many people actually believed her? Many questioned why she hadn’t spoken up sooner but there are countless factors and fears that a woman considers before coming forward—factors that men often don’t understand.
Despite Chinmayi’s immense talent she has lost numerous opportunities and faced significant setbacks as a result. Who has stood up for her? Even today she remains courageous and continues to address the issue publicly. Whether the incident in question actually occurred I cannot say, but the lack of belief in her claims is troubling.
Recently I came across a YouTube video where a man, who isn’t even a journalist made sweeping allegations that all actresses in the film industry use their sexuality to advance their careers. Such statements are not only damaging but also perpetuate harmful stereotypes.
Vishal who serves as the general secretary of the Nadigar Sangam (Actors’ Association), should take a stand against such derogatory remarks. If he has the courage, he should confront this man who made these offensive claims. I would support Vishal in addressing this issue directly. It’s time for those in positions of power to back up their words with actions and defend their colleagues against unjust attacks,” Radhika said angrily.
The actor emphasized that women in the Tamil film industry have no recourse if they face sexual harassment or abuse, as there is no POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) committee in place and the Nadigar Sangam lacks a proper complaint redressal system. When questioned about the Nadigar Sangam, she expressed frustration, questioning how many men on the committee are themselves free from allegations or misconduct.
She called on producers, actors, and everyone in the industry to unite in support of women who bring forward complaints. It is crucial for the industry to collectively acknowledge these issues and show genuine support.
The actor advocated for the establishment of a dedicated and secure platform where women can safely report their grievances. This platform should ensure that complaints are addressed promptly and effectively, providing a safe space for women to voice their concerns and receive timely resolutions.
By coming together and forming such a group, the industry can create a more supportive and equitable environment for all women working in the field.