The Malayalam film industry finds itself mired in a serious controversy as actor Mukesh M has been accused of sexual harassment by actress Minu Muneer. The allegations, which have shaken the industry, also involve several other prominent actors, including Jayasurya, Maniyanpilla Raju, and Idavela Babu. Muneer’s accusations extend beyond verbal misconduct, claiming that she was subjected to both verbal and physical abuse during her professional collaborations with these individuals.
Minu Muneer initially aired these allegations on her Facebook page, recounting a series of disturbing incidents dating back to 2013. Among the most shocking claims, she alleges that Jayasurya hugged and kissed her without consent as she was leaving a restroom. Muneer also accused Idavela Babu of making inappropriate sexual advances and Maniyanpilla Raju of proposing inappropriate arrangements concerning her hotel accommodation during a film shoot. Her accusations paint a grim picture of an industry where power dynamics have been allegedly exploited for personal gain.
Muneer’s claims surfaced in the wake of the resignations of director Ranjith and actor Siddique from their positions within the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA), following similar accusations. This context has only added to the gravity of Muneer’s allegations, as she claims that her experiences are part of a broader pattern of harassment within the Malayalam film industry.
In a detailed Facebook post, Muneer mentioned, “I am writing to report a series of incidents of physical and verbal abuse I suffered at the hands of Mukesh, Maniyanpilla Raju, Idavela Babu, Jayasurya, Advocate Chandrasekharan, production controller Noble, and Vichu.” She further revealed that the trauma from these experiences forced her to leave the Malayalam film industry and relocate to Chennai.
In response to these serious allegations, Mukesh M, who is not only an actor but also a Member of the Legislative Assembly, has firmly denied the accusations. He issued a press release, asserting his innocence and accusing Minu Muneer of attempting to extort money from him through blackmail. Mukesh stated, “In response to the allegations raised against me and other film industry colleagues, I welcome the ongoing investigations. A fair and transparent inquiry is crucial to uncover the truth behind the accusations being discussed in the public domain.”
Mukesh also emphasized his long-standing commitment to the arts and his deep sense of responsibility as a public representative. He highlighted his family’s rich theatrical tradition, mentioning that his mother, who began acting at the age of fourteen, continues to perform at the age of eighty-seven. Mukesh suggested that the allegations were politically motivated, pointing out that similar accusations were made against him in 2018, which were later dismissed by the public. “In the face of those now attempting to judge me, I am providing certain clarifications backed by evidence to demonstrate my innocence,” he added.
Mukesh’s counter-claim that Muneer had previously sought financial assistance from him and had tried to blackmail him has added another layer of complexity to the controversy. “This group, which has been persistently blackmailing me for money, has now turned against me at this opportune moment,” Mukesh stated, calling for a thorough and transparent investigation to clear his name.
The controversy surrounding Mukesh and the broader allegations within the Malayalam film industry have intensified with the recent release of a redacted version of the Justice Hema Committee report. This report outlines various cases of harassment and exploitation within the industry, highlighting the control exerted by a small group of male figures. The Kerala government has responded to the growing public and media scrutiny by announcing the formation of a special investigation team to probe these allegations. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan confirmed the creation of the team, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation in light of the detailed accounts provided by several women in the industry.
As the investigation unfolds, the Malayalam film industry faces a critical moment of reckoning, with the potential to reshape its power dynamics and address the systemic issues that have been brought to light by these serious allegations.
