In an exclusive interview, actor Tovino Thomas shared his thoughts on the Hema Committee Report and its implications. When asked about Revathi’s statement that the report is a “powerful decision,” Tovino expressed his agreement, while also pointing out that such issues are not unique to the Malayalam industry. “I appreciate Revathi’s statement,” he said. “But it’s important to note that this committee was focused on the Malayalam industry. These issues exist in every industry, and society has its own way of correcting itself. This report, along with movements like ‘Me Too,’ accelerates that process.”
Tovino emphasized that while the report brings necessary attention to the problems in the Malayalam film industry, it is unfair to single out one industry as uniquely problematic. “It hurts when the entire industry is painted in a negative light,” he stated. “If someone has committed a terrible crime, they should be punished, but it’s not right to generalize and target one particular industry.”
Reflecting on his own experiences, Tovino clarified that disparities in the industry are not purely based on gender. “I’ve worked on many projects without basic amenities like a vanity van, while the heroines had access to them,” he explained. “It’s more about the value one brings to a project rather than gender inequality.”
Tovino also expressed strong support for taking severe action against those who commit serious offenses within the industry. “We need to ensure that offenders are punished,” he said, “but we also need to remember that not everyone in the industry is guilty.”
Tovino Thomas was in Mumbai promoting his upcoming film “Ajayante Randam Moshanam” [ARM], which is set in Northern Kerala across three different time periods—1900, 1950, and 1990. In the film, Tovino plays three generations of heroes—Maniyan, Kunjikelu, and Ajayan—who strive to protect a valuable treasure. Directed by Jithin Lal and co-starring Krithi Shetty and Aishwarya Rajesh, the film is slated for release in September.
Basant Kasayap is an entertainment aficionado who delves into the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry. From Hollywood to Bollywood to regional cinema, she offers readers an insider’s perspective on the world of movies, music, and pop culture.