Bengali actor Sreelekha Mitra alleges misconduct by Malayalam director Ranjith; latter refutes allegations
By Aishwarya Nair | First Published Aug 24, 2024, 8:17 AM ISTSreelekha Mitra, a Bengali actress, has accused Malayalam film director Ranjith of mistreating her during the filming of "Paleri Manikyam" in 2009-10. However, Ranjith refuted all allegations while speaking to Asianet News.
Bengali actress Sreelekha Mitra has come forward with allegations of inappropriate behavior by director Ranjith, who also heads the Kerala State Film Academy. According to Mitra, Ranjith inappropriately touched her arm, played with her bangles, and stroked her hair after offering her a role in the Malayalam film "Paleri Manikyam".
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However, Ranjith told Asianet News that Mitra was not cast in the film due to unsuitability for the role, and maintains that he did not engage in any misconduct.
Sreelekha Mitra alleges that director Ranjith mistreated her during the filming of "Paleri Manikyam" in 2009-10. She claims to have spent a night in fear at a hotel due to his behavior. Although she reported the incident to Joshy Joseph, no further action was taken. Mitra believes she was denied opportunities in Malayalam films, including "Paleri Manikyam", as a result of speaking out against Ranjith's behavior.
"They didn't even give me money to return to my hometown. I had to return alone the next day. Those who have faced harassment should come forward and complain, the names of the perpetrators should be revealed, and committees like the Hema Committee should be formed in other languages as well," says actress Sreelekha Mitra.
Kerala's Cultural Affairs Minister, Saji Cheriyan, announced that the state government will take action against Malayalam film director Ranjith if a formal complaint is filed, following allegations of misconduct made by Sreelekha Mitra.
Minister Saji Cheriyan clarified that acclaimed director Ranjith shouldn't be penalised solely based on allegations, emphasizing the need for a formal complaint to take action. He also stated that Ranjith's position as Chairman of the Kerala State Film Academy is secure, and there's no consideration for his removal at this time.
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