Younger actors in Malayalam are worse! Movies celebrating alpha males are still being made: Parvathy
While the controversies surrounding the Hema Committee report continue to rage, actor Parvathy Thiruvothu has expressed her disappointment with the attitude of young actors in Malayalam cinema. Parvathy shared her thoughts during a conversation with writer Arundhati Roy at the Wayanad Literature Festival.
When Arundhati Roy asked Parvathy if the current generation of male actors in Malayalam cinema were offering any support in addressing the issues within the industry, Parvathy responded that the younger generation of actors is not much different from the older one — in fact, they are somewhat worse. The older generation was more committed to the patriarchal system and misogyny, but what bothers her now is the apathy of the new generation.
“They can clearly see what is happening around them. Some people in the industry are frustrated because they are not receiving the same ‘benefits’ that the older generation enjoyed,” Parvathy said.
Even as movements for change are underway, high-budget films glorifying hyper-masculinity and patriarchal ideas continue to be made, she added. "These films attempt to bring back the concepts of alpha males and outdated notions about women. I recently watched one such film. Earlier, I used to worry that I would have to work with these people again. But now, such thoughts don’t really trouble me," the actor remarked.
In the conversation, she also revealed how advocating for proper toilet facilities on film sets earned her the nickname "Bathroom Parvathy" from some members of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA). Parvathy also criticized the voting practices within AMMA, likening them to outdated Panchayat election methods. “Voting is often conducted after most people have left for meals. Hands are simply raised for the sake of appearances, with decisions predetermined beforehand. It’s all superficial,” she explained. Frustrated by the lack of transparency and accountability, Parvathy eventually decided to resign from the organization.
Beyond acting, Parvathy champions gender equality and women's rights, using her platform to challenge norms in an industry long dominated by men. Her legacy continues to inspire as she fights for change both on and off-screen.