Renowned actress and model Poonam Kaur has publicly urged key figures in the industry to question acclaimed director Trivikram Srinivas regarding a complaint she filed against him
The Telugu film industry, popularly known as Tollywood, is currently grappling with a wave of serious allegations as the Me Too movement gains momentum. Following the Malayalam film industry’s recent turmoil, Tollywood is now under scrutiny with high-profile accusations of sexual harassment and misconduct.
Poonam Kaur’s Allegations Against Trivikram Srinivas
Renowned actress and model Poonam Kaur has publicly urged key figures in the industry to question acclaimed director Trivikram Srinivas regarding a complaint she filed against him. Kaur criticized the Movie Artists Association (MAA) for allegedly ignoring her concerns. She expressed her frustration on social media, stating that her complaint was not taken seriously, which has led to significant political and personal suffering.
This development comes in the wake of the TDP government’s decision to reopen the case involving the alleged confinement of Mumbai actress Kadambari Jethwani during the previous YSRCP regime. The investigation has brought renewed focus on the role of prominent figures in the YSRCP government. Poonam Kaur’s allegations against Trivikram, a close associate of Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, have added another layer of complexity to the ongoing investigations.
Choreographer Jani Master Accused of Rape
In a separate incident, award-winning choreographer Jani Master has been accused of raping a 21-year-old colleague. The allegations have led to significant public outcry and have brought attention to the pervasive issue of sexual harassment within the industry. The Cyberabad police have stepped up their investigation, recording the complainant’s statement and planning to issue a notice to Jani Master for questioning.
The complainant, who worked as an assistant to Jani Master, alleged that the choreographer sexually assaulted her multiple times since 2019. The police are considering invoking sections of the Prevention of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, as the complainant claimed some assaults occurred when she was a minor2.
Industry Response
The Movie Artists Association has denied receiving any formal complaint from Poonam Kaur. Neither Trivikram Srinivas nor MAA has publicly responded to Kaur’s allegations. The industry is now under intense scrutiny, with calls for greater accountability and measures to address sexual harassment and misconduct1.
As the investigations continue, the Telugu film industry faces a critical moment in addressing these serious allegations and ensuring a safer environment for all its members.
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