In a candid interview with Hindustan Times, actor Lakshmi Manchu, the daughter of veteran Telugu actor Mohan Babu, voiced her strong opinions on the Justice Hema Committee report, which exposes severe discrimination and sexual exploitation in the Malayalam film industry. Lakshmi’s remarks shed light on the pervasive gender inequality in cinema and across all walks of life, urging for a transformative change that addresses these deep-seated issues.
The Justice Hema Committee report has brought to the forefront the harsh realities faced by women in the Malayalam film industry, including sexual harassment, lack of basic amenities, and gross mistreatment. Though not fully acquainted with the report’s specifics, Lakshmi Manchu didn’t hesitate to speak out against the unfairness highlighted by its findings. “Life is not fair to women, not just in the film industry,” she asserted, emphasizing the need for women to stand up for themselves to drive societal change.
Lakshmi’s advocacy for equality is rooted in her personal experiences and observations. “I’ve been pushed over, but I stood my ground,” she stated, expressing her commitment to fighting for justice for herself and countless women who have been silenced for speaking out. Her call to action reflects the broader cultural shift initiated by movements like #MeToo, where the courage of one individual can inspire millions to raise their voices against injustice.
Despite her protected upbringing in the Telugu film industry, Lakshmi did not shy away from acknowledging the challenges faced by women, even in familiar environments. Reflecting on her experiences, she admitted, “Initially, when people used to hit on me, I would be very nasty to them, then I would lose the entire work opportunity or that job.” This candid admission highlights the difficult choices women often face: assert themselves and risk losing opportunities or tolerate inappropriate behavior to maintain their careers.
Her strategy has evolved over time, now choosing to handle such situations with a blend of humor and firmness. “Now, I’m like, ‘Oh my God, I’m so touched and honored that you really find me attractive. But I’m a married woman, and I’m very committed,’” she shared, illustrating her approach to ward off unwanted advances while preserving her professional relationships.
Lakshmi’s critique of the industry extends beyond personal experiences, addressing broader societal issues such as the lack of proper sex education. “We don’t know how to handle our hormones. So we only project. Men need to learn how to keep it in their pants,” she emphasized. Her statement underscores a crucial point: without adequate education on consent and respect, the cycle of harassment and exploitation is likely to continue.
She also reacted strongly to the recent Kolkata rape and murder case, calling for stricter punishment and questioning the effectiveness of existing laws in protecting women. “What happened in Kolkata was really shocking…Where is the law right now with this?” Lakshmi asked, highlighting the urgent need for legal reforms to ensure safety and justice for women.
Lakshmi’s concern isn’t limited to protecting women; she also advocates for the upbringing of better men. “It’s not about raising a good daughter, but raising a good son too,” she stated, emphasizing the role of parenting in shaping a more respectful and equitable society. By teaching boys about consent and respect from a young age, she believes that the next generation can break away from the toxic behaviors that have plagued industries and societies for so long.
