In a recent candid interview with a Tamil channel, renowned actress Shakeela revealed the shocking truth behind the downfall of her film career. According to Shakeela, the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) played a key role in sabotaging her work and future in the industry. The actress claimed that it was an influential actor, who has since passed away, who instigated AMMA’s actions against her.
Reflecting on her past, Shakeela highlighted a dark chapter in her career dating back to the year 2000. She disclosed that AMMA not only banned her films but also prevented them from passing censorship, effectively blacklisting her from the industry.
“What wrong did I do?” Shakeela questioned during the interview. “I acted in films, brought theatres back from being converted into marriage halls, and the government earned taxes from my films. What mistake did I make?” Her poignant question underscored the bewildering lack of support and fairness in an industry she once helped revive.
Shakeela Accuses AMMA of Career Sabotage
Shakeela’s remarks also brought to light the issue of patriarchal dominance in the Malayalam film industry. She expressed how difficult it was for an outsider, especially a woman, to thrive in Kerala’s male-dominated film scene. According to her, there was a deep-seated resistance to accepting a woman from another state whose films outperformed local productions. She reflected on how, despite her success, she felt alienated and unsupported. In 2000, Shakeela had even gone so far as to announce her retirement from acting, feeling betrayed and cornered by the industry’s apathy.
“I am not speaking out of resentment but out of a sense of injustice,” Shakeela clarified. While she acknowledged the love and recognition she received from the people of Kerala, she criticized the systematic injustice meted out by industry gatekeepers who blocked her films from reaching audiences. “It is Kerala that gave me my name and fame. I have no issues with the people of Kerala. What I am against is the injustice they showed me by not allowing my films to reach theatres or pass censorship,” Shakeela added.
The actress also raised concerns about the broader issues of injustice in the industry, pointing to a high-profile assault case involving a young actress. She questioned the kind of justice provided to the victim, highlighting the lack of accountability and support within the industry. Despite her skepticism about the impact of her words, Shakeela acknowledged the positive changes initiated by the formation of the Hema Committee, which encourages more people to speak out against injustices in the industry.
Shakeela concluded by calling for similar initiatives and committees across all languages, advocating for justice for everyone in the film industry. “I too deserve justice. I have never wronged anyone,” she declared, reiterating her stand against the systemic discrimination and unfair treatment that has marred her career. Her revelations serve as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by women in cinema, particularly those who dare to speak out against powerful industry forces.