The Indian film industry has always been under the spotlight, but not always for the right reasons. In recent times, the Malayalam film industry has been grappling with severe allegations of sexual harassment. The Hema Committee report exposed instances of the casting couch and the exploitation of women in the industry, bringing many high-profile names into the discussion. While this has drawn significant attention, it isn’t the first time the Indian film industry has faced such accusations. Several Bollywood actors have also been accused of sexual misconduct, especially during the #MeToo movement, which gained significant momentum in India in 2018.
Nana Patekar: A Shocking Allegation
Nana Patekar, a well-known veteran actor who has starred in films like Krantiveer, Tiranga, Welcome, Ab Tak Chappan, and Rajneeti, was one of the prominent names mentioned during the #MeToo movement. In December 2018, Tanushree Dutta, a former Miss India Universe and Bollywood actress, accused him of sexual harassment. According to Tanushree, the incident occurred during the filming of a song for the 2008 movie Horn OK Please. She alleged that Nana Patekar misbehaved with her on the set, leading to a significant controversy. Nana Patekar, however, denied all the allegations, stating that they were baseless.
Alok Nath: The Irony of a Cultured Persona
Alok Nath, an actor synonymous with the portrayal of cultured and paternal figures in Bollywood, found himself at the center of multiple allegations. Known for his roles in popular films like Hum Aapke Hain Kaun, Hum Saath Saath Hain, and Jeet, Alok Nath was accused by four women of sexual harassment. The accusations came from writer-producer Vinta Nanda, actresses Sandhya Mridul and Deepika Amin, and an anonymous woman. Alok Nath dismissed these allegations, claiming they were efforts to damage his reputation.
Sajid Khan: Accusations Against a Filmmaker
Sajid Khan, a filmmaker known for directing movies like Heyy Baby, the Housefull series, and Humshakals, also faced serious allegations during the #MeToo movement. Three women, including journalist Karishma Upadhyay, actress Saloni Chopra, and actress Rachel White, accused Sajid Khan of sexual harassment. The allegations against him created a stir in the industry, with many demanding accountability. Sajid Khan, however, refuted these claims, labeling them as false.
Kailash Kher: The Fall of a Renowned Singer
Kailash Kher, a celebrated singer and music composer who has won several awards, including four Filmfare Awards, was another name that surfaced during the #MeToo movement. Female photojournalist Natasha Homerjani accused Kailash Kher of sexual harassment, followed by singer Sona Mohapatra, who also came forward with similar allegations. Kailash Kher responded by stating that he never intended to cause harm and apologized if his actions were misinterpreted.
Rajat Kapoor: A Respected Actor’s Name Tarnished
Rajat Kapoor, a respected actor in the film industry, was accused of inappropriate behavior by a female journalist. The journalist alleged that Rajat made objectionable remarks during a telephonic interview. The accusation came as a shock to many, given Rajat’s image in the industry. Rajat Kapoor later issued an apology, expressing regret over the incident and clarifying that he never intended to cause discomfort.
