Indian women are increasingly shaping global narratives through their remarkable achievements, reflecting a blend of passion, determination, and resilience. This transformative wave of female empowerment was celebrated at the News18 SheShakti 2024 event, held on September 16. The event honored women who have broken barriers across various fields and elevated India’s global standing. Among the notable attendees were acclaimed actresses Rasika Dugal and her Delhi Crime co-star Shefali Shah.
During a candid conversation at the conclave, Rasika Dugal addressed the pressing issue of sexual violence against women and the silence that often surrounds toxic behavior, particularly within the film and entertainment industry. Sharing her thoughts, Dugal highlighted the systemic difficulties in holding individuals accountable, especially given the freelance nature of the industry.
“I think it’s very, very difficult to find a fix,” Dugal remarked. “It’s hard to even establish a system of accountability because we work with so many different people, and reputation plays a huge role in this industry. There’s a lot of fear, and there’s no single way to rise through the ranks. You either end up pleasing everyone or no one, and navigating that middle ground is tough.”
She went on to commend the Women’s Collective in Cinema (WCC) in Kerala and the efforts of the Justice Hema Committee, both of which have been at the forefront of advocating for women’s rights in the Malayalam film industry. “I am so moved by their work. It’s been seven years, and they’re still fighting the fight. That kind of persistence and courage deserves applause.”
Dugal’s comments come amid the ongoing MeToo movement in the Malayalam film industry, which has led to FIRs being filed against several high-profile figures, including actors Mukesh, Siddique, and Jayasurya, as well as directors and production executives. The movement gained traction following the release of the Justice Hema Committee Report, which exposed the extent of harassment within the industry.
On the professional front, Rasika Dugal has been making waves with her recent work, reprising her role as Beena Tripathi in the third season of the hit web series Mirzapur. Her performance, alongside stars like Ali Fazal and Pankaj Tripathi, has once again captivated audiences, further solidifying her place in the industry.
This year’s SheShakti theme, ‘Breaking Barriers,’ highlighted the incredible contributions of women leaders from a wide range of sectors, including politics, cinema, and social work. With a stellar lineup of speakers and honorees, the event was a powerful testament to the strength and influence of Indian women, both nationally and globally.
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