After months of heated discussions and a long wait, Malayalam actor Shwetha Menon has created history by becoming the first woman president of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA).
Her election marks a new chapter for the organization, which has been at the center of major controversies in recent years.
Speaking about her new role at Amma, Shwetha Menon said she does not want to make big promises just yet but assured that her team will work toward meaningful changes.
“I haven’t planned anything. I don’t have an agenda. This is a very big matter. Please don’t expect miracles, but we will be doing something for a change,” she shared in her first media interaction after the announcement.
The election for the top post was closely followed across the film industry. It comes almost a year after veteran actor Mohanlal stepped down as AMMA president in August 2024. His resignation followed mounting criticism over how the association dealt with serious issues, especially allegations of sexual harassment and abuse within the Malayalam film industry.
At that time, the entire 17-member executive committee also resigned, leaving the body without leadership.
Also Read: Sanjjanaa Galrani urges K’taka women’s commission to set up SWAA for female artists
The uproar began after the Justice K. Hema Committee submitted its report on the working conditions of women in Mollywood. The detailed 235-page report pointed to disturbing accounts of harassment faced by female actors and crew members. It also noted that the industry is largely in control of a small circle of 10 to 15 male producers, directors, and actors, who hold power and influence in decision-making. A redacted version of the report was later made public, sparking widespread debate and criticism.
Following the findings, the Kerala government formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the complaints of women working in the industry. Many female actors came forward to share their experiences, leading to growing pressure on the association to take stronger action.
The leadership crisis deepened earlier this year when actor Unni Mukundan, who was serving as AMMA’s treasurer, also resigned in January. He said that increasing professional commitments had taken a toll on his mental health, making it difficult for him to continue in the position.