- Bengali actress Srilekha Mitra has accused director and Kerala Film Academy Chairman Ranjith of inappropriate behavior.
- She alleges that after being called to act in the movie Paleri Manikyam, Ranjith touched her hand inappropriately and stroked her hair.
- When he tried to touch her neck, he left the room. The next day, she decided not to participate in the film.
- Srilekha clarifies that she wasn’t sexually assaulted, but Ranjith’s behavior hinted at inappropriate intentions.
- Documentary director Joshi Joseph mentioned that Srilekha told him about her experience that same day.
- Joshi, who was living in both Kolkata and Kerala at the time, brought Srilekha to his house after she shared her story.
Ranjith’s Response:
- Ranjith claims that Srilekha was called for an audition, not to act in Paleri Manikyam.
- He says her performance was not satisfactory, and there was no need for further interaction beyond asking her to buy him a cigarette.
- Ranjith adds that co-director Shankar Ramakrishnan informed Srilekha the next day that they were not satisfied with her performance, after which she allegedly spoke angrily to Shankar.
- Ranjith believes there is a different motive behind these allegations and considers himself the victim in this situation.
- He stated that if the matter is pursued legally, he is prepared to respond accordingly.