Jyotika is returning to the big screen after 36 Vayadhinile with G Bramma’s Magalir Mattum. Speaking at the film’s audio launch yesterday, she had much to say about the roles offered to actresses in Tamil cinema: “I request all the directors who work with the top heroes to give the female characters in your films some dignity. Please portray them the way you see the women around you – like your mother, sister, girlfriend and friends.”
Stressing on the importance of the industry’s social responsibility, the actress added, “Heroes have crores of fans and everything showcased in their films right from their dialogues to their actions influence these fans, especially the youth. We are socially responsible for what is happening to women all over India.”
Jyotika also provided specific instances where change was possible. “While it may not be practical to design costumes based entirely on real life, the least you can do is to give them roles in which they exhibit intelligence. Please don’t use double meaning dialogues that demean women. Stop showing them as someone who will shamelessly go behind the heroes, constantly confessing their love. Please stop these,” she urged.
Suriya, who also spoke at the event, applauded his wife for taking a stand and promised to do his bit. “When I think about why we decided to do this movie, Jyotika’s point about being responsible rings a bell. Somewhere along the way I felt that I should also be responsible. I promise here on this stage I will try my level best to correct the aspects that she has pointed out,” he affirmed.
Produced by 2D Entertainment and Chris Pictures, Magalir Mattum also stars Urvashi, Saranya and Bhanupriya in the lead roles.
Source: The New Indian Express