Khushbu Recounts Childhood Abuse By Father

CHENNAI (ANI) – Actor-turned-politician Khushbu Sundar has shared her harrowing experience of abuse by her father while acknowledging the Hema Committee report, which has exposed rampant sexual exploitation, illegal bans, and inhumane working conditions in the Malayalam film industry.

The 235-page Hema Committee report, published after redacting the names of witnesses and the accused, revealed that the Malayalam film industry is controlled by about 10 to 15 male producers, directors, and actors who dominate and influence the industry.

In her post, Khushbu reflected on her past and the impact of her father’s abuse, explaining why she had delayed speaking out. “As a woman and a mother, the wounds inflicted by such violence cut deep, not only in the flesh but in the very soul. These acts of brutality shake the foundations of our trust, love, and strength,” she said. She added, “Some ask me what took me so long to speak about my father’s abuse. I agree I should have spoken earlier. But what happened to me was not a compromise to build my career. I was abused by the person who was supposed to provide me the strongest arms to hold me if I fell.”

On August 19, a redacted version of the Justice Hema Committee report on harassment faced by women in the Malayalam film industry was made public. Khushbu commended the women who have stood strong in the face of this abuse and voiced her support for the victims. However, she questioned whether the Committee’s findings would be enough to effect real change. “This moment of #MeToo prevailing in our industry breaks you. Kudos to the women who have stood their ground and emerged victorious. The #HemaCommittee was much needed to break the abuse. But will it?”

Reflecting on conversations with her daughters, Khushbu shared, “Had a long conversation with my 24-year-old and 21-year-old daughters on this issue. Was amazed at their empathy and understanding towards the victims. They firmly support them and stand with them at this juncture.”

Khushbu urged victims to speak out, emphasizing that doing so would aid both healing and investigations. “It doesn’t matter whether you speak today or tomorrow, just speak,” she said. She also called for empathy towards victims, stressing that not everyone is in a position to speak out immediately. “When questioning why she didn’t come out earlier, we need to consider her circumstances – not everyone is privileged to speak out,” she added.

In a call to action, Khushbu urged men to show solidarity with victims and stressed that supporting and respecting women should be universal. “To all the men out there, I implore you to stand by the victim and show your unwavering support. Every man was born to a woman who endured incredible pain and sacrifice,” she said.

Khushbu also highlighted the need for change, encouraging women to stand up for themselves and reject any compromise on their dignity. “This should be a wake-up call to ALL. Let the exploitation stop here. Women, come out and speak. Remember, you always have a choice in life. Your NO is a NO. Never adjust or compromise on your dignity and respectability. EVER. I stand with all the women who have been through this.”