Actor Swara Bhasker has shared a poignant response to the Hema Committee report, which exposes instances of harassment and exploitation within the Malayalam film industry. On Instagram, Swara described the report’s revelations as “heartbreaking because it is familiar” and criticized the pervasive patriarchal structure of the entertainment industry.
In her detailed note, Swara Bhasker expressed deep admiration for the Women In Cinema Collective (WCC), praising their bravery in confronting sexual harassment and violence in the industry. She acknowledged their efforts in urging for an expert committee to investigate and address these issues and for providing support to victims. “A big hug and gratitude to the brave women of the WCC who have consistently raised their voices and sought justice. You are heroes and are doing the work that should have been done by those in positions of power. Respect and solidarity with you!” she wrote.
Swara’s note reflected on the findings of the Hema Committee report, noting that while some details were new, the overall picture of systemic issues was all too familiar. She criticized the entertainment industry as inherently male-centric and patriarchal, emphasizing that the industry’s risk-averse and perception-sensitive nature often sidelines ethical concerns in favor of financial practicality. “Showbiz has always been a male-centric industry, a patriarchal power set-up,” she said. “It’s so much more convenient and financially practical to just carry on, even if it means ignoring ethical issues.”
Swara also questioned whether other regional film industries in India are addressing similar issues, highlighting the need for broader conversations and reforms across the industry.
