The Tamil film industry has begun to address allegations of sexual harassment in the wake of the Hema Committee Report released in Kerala. Venkat Prabhu, a prominent Tamil film director known for his upcoming Vijay-starrer ‘GOAT’ and the blockbuster ‘Mangatha,’ has become the first major figure in the Tamil film industry to publicly address the issue.
Venkat Prabhu called for a serious examination of sexual harassment within the Tamil film industry. He stressed that the industry needs to take concrete steps to address these allegations and ensure that perpetrators face appropriate consequences. “At least from now, the Tamil film industry should start clearing things up,” Prabhu stated, highlighting the urgent need for change.
Venkat Prabhu, who is also known for his commitment to improving the working environment for women, emphasized the necessity of creating a safer space within the industry. “I have two daughters. We need a safer place for women,” he said. He advocated for strict measures to deter future offences, urging that punishment be enforced to prevent further harassment. “Ensure punishment so men will be scared to do what they do,” Venkat Prabhu added.
The director also noted that while sexual harassment is a widespread issue across various sectors, the film industry often receives more media attention. “Women go through the same in all industries, including media, IT, and sports,” he observed.
When questioned about the handling of specific allegations, such as those made by singer Chinmayi against lyricist Vairamuthu and actor Radha Ravi, Venkat Prabhu suggested that the Tamil film industry is taking steps to address these cases. He reassured that “the Tamil film industry is taking care of it.” However, some industry insiders have expressed doubts about this approach. A female industry member challenged this view, questioning how the industry is actually addressing the issue.
Chinmayi, who has been vocal about her experiences, criticized Venkat Prabhu’s statements, claiming that the industry has not taken meaningful action. “Venkat Prabhu is someone I personally like as a person, but he is wrong when he says the industry is doing something. It isn’t. FEFSI hasn’t done anything—neither issued a directive to make things safe for women at any workplace,” she said.
In related developments, superstar Rajinikanth, when asked about the possibility of implementing a committee similar to Kerala’s Hema Committee in Tamil Nadu, stated, “I’m not aware of the Hema Committee report.” Meanwhile, Vairamuthu has consistently denied the allegations and has stated his readiness to face legal action if a formal complaint is filed.
