Message to Young Women: Lakshmi Manchu urges the industry to ensure a safe, respectful, and inclusive workspace.
Actor Lakshmi Manchu has taken a firm stand against a senior journalist for allegedly making body-shaming and ageist remarks during a recent interview, sparking widespread discussion on sexism in the media and film industry. According to reports, the journalist criticized Lakshmi’s clothing choices, suggesting that her attire was inappropriate for a woman in her 40s and a mother. Offended by the comments, Lakshmi has lodged a formal complaint with the Telangana Film Chamber of Commerce (TFCC), demanding accountability and a public apology. Speaking to the press, she released a powerful statement emphasizing the need to address casual misogyny in professional spaces. “India honors women as Shakti, yet in professional spaces, we often face casual misogyny, humiliation, and disrespect. This cannot continue. I owe it not only to myself but to the many young women who look up to me to call this out,” she said.
In her statement, Lakshmi clarified that she has always welcomed tough questions and public scrutiny as part of her career, but she draws a firm line at what she calls “cruelty masked as journalism.” She stressed that respect is non-negotiable and accountability is essential, highlighting that such incidents have a larger impact on women in the industry. Lakshmi has urged the TFCC to take concrete measures to ensure that no other woman faces similar treatment in the future. Her bold stance has been praised across social media, with many lauding her for speaking out against entrenched gender biases and advocating for a safer, more respectful professional environment.
While promoting her latest film, Daksha: A Deadly Conspiracy, which released on September 20, Lakshmi also shed light on the unspoken biases faced by divorced women in the film industry. In an interview with Great Andhra, she spoke about how personal choices, such as divorce, can unfairly impact a woman’s career, even when she remains professional and willing to work. Lakshmi highlighted the plight of a superstar’s ex-wife, who, despite being open to acting opportunities, has allegedly been unofficially blacklisted following her divorce. “There is a superstar’s ex-wife who works here. “Ever since the divorce, roles that were once hers have been denied to her.” People say, ‘Oddu le amma, aina emana antaru emo’ (Let it go, dear. What if her ex says something?). She is waiting to do good work, and I don’t need to name her,” Lakshmi explained. When prompted by the interviewer whether she was referring to Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Lakshmi declined to confirm, saying, “You’re thinking it’s Samantha. But there’s not just one superstar; around five to six of them have been divorced. I’m close to all of them.”
Lakshmi highlighted the stark double standards in the industry, noting that a man’s life and career often remain unaffected after a divorce, while women face immense scrutiny and limitations. She pointed out the multiple responsibilities women take on after marriage—raising children, managing household duties, and handling in-law relationships—yet they are seldom granted the freedom to navigate their professional paths without judgment or interference. “If a man gets divorced, his life doesn’t change. But for a woman, once she marries, has children, takes on in-laws and responsibilities, no one gives us freedom. We have to take it ourselves,” she said, emphasizing the need for systemic change and equal treatment.
Lakshmi’s remarks come at a time when the film industry is under growing scrutiny for its treatment of women, both on-screen and off-screen. Her candid discussion about body shaming, ageism, and the professional hurdles faced by divorced women underscores the challenges female actors continue to face, despite their talent and experience. By publicly addressing these issues, Lakshmi has not only defended her own dignity but also highlighted the broader gender biases prevalent in the media and film sectors. Her latest film, Daksha: A Deadly Conspiracy, a thriller, has added momentum to her promotional campaign, while her outspoken stance on these pressing issues continues to resonate with audiences and industry peers alike.
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