'It is not Jayasurya', Sonia Malhar clarifies allegations

Actor Sonia Malhar has addressed the rumours surrounding her recent allegations against a young actor, clarifying that her claims do not involve actor Jayasurya.

In an interview with a YouTube channel, Sonia explained that after she revealed the incident, there was widespread speculation that the person she mentioned was Jayasurya.

Sonia pointed out that her disclosure was meant to expose certain influential figures in the industry. She assured that if legal action is pursued, she will reveal the name of the individual to the investigation team. 

"Following my disclosure, several artists and superstars, including Lalettan (Mohanlal), Dulquer Salmaan, Jayasurya, and others, were dragged into the conversation on social media. It's unfortunate and saddening to hear their names involved. We have no intention of causing distress to their families. These rumours are purely speculative and unnecessary," Sonia stated.

Sonia also shared that she has no fear of speaking out but does not want to face mental trauma. As a widow with children and responsibilities, she is focused on her career and has recently received an opportunity to act in a Tamil movie. She clarified that she does not intend to publicly name anyone at this time.

"Please refrain from linking my name with Jayasurya or any other actor. If any actor feels troubled by my disclosure, they are welcome to file a complaint. I will respond to it appropriately. If the investigating team ask, I will certainly reveal the names of those who harassed me," she added.

Sonia stressed the importance of speaking out as a woman in the industry.

"Many women have shed tears in this industry, and as a woman it is my responsibility to speak out and encourage others," Sonia sated.

Although she urged other women not to misuse the opportunity to speak out and warned against making false accusations for fame or political gain.

Reflecting on her career, Sonia mentioned that her first movie was ‘Pulival Pattanam,’ followed by ‘Geethaanjali’ with Mohanlal. Although she has played lead roles in art films and starred in eight movies, she is not widely known due to the lack of theatrical releases. She also clarified that she does not know the actor Minu Muneer, who made similar allegations, and has never had any negative experiences with the people Minu accused.

Sonia revealed that she does not have membership, as she couldn't afford the required fees despite acting in three films. 

"I do not have a membership in AMMA. If you act in three films, you can get membership. But because the money was spent for other purposes, i  was not able to join. I have only received good support from Idavela Babu. I also do not know about the news that says sexual favors are required if you want a membership in the AMMA," the actor said

Earlier, Sonia Malhar had publicly accused a prominent young star in the Malayalam film industry of serious misconduct. The actress alleged that the actor in question grabbed her inappropriately on a movie set in 2013.

Sonia recounted that the incident occurred in Thodupuzha when she was working as a junior artist. She claimed that the actor, without her consent, physically grabbed her, and she had to forcefully free herself from this.

According to Sonia, the actor later apologised for his behaviour. She has chosen to reveal this incident now to encourage young women in the film industry to speak out about their own experiences and stand up against harassment.

"I know I lost opportunities because I refused to give in to exploitation. But there were instances where i couls work comfortably and return home without fear. I have faced many challenges in the film industry because I chose to stand up for myself," Sonia told Mathrubhumi News.