The harassment is not going to end: Prachi Tehlan discusses the Malayalam film industry’s scandals – and more

The Malayalam film industry has been rocked by reports of sexual crimes against actresses over the years. Several people in the film world, including prominent actors, are already facing arrests and court cases. People are shocked to see the downfall of many revered names in the ongoing scandal.
“But this is not going to bring any positive change in the industry,” according to Prachi Tehlan, who starred with Mammootty in the hit ‘Mamankam.’ “In spite of the controversy and lawsuits, the harassment is not going to end till the time the abuser’s continue to have options for their personal interest.”
Tehlan, who has acted in films made in several languages, said harassers will just be more careful in future and make sure everything looks legal to make it hard for women to make accusations or approach the police.
“I am saddened by the current controversies. The stories of some of the actresses are horrible and heartbreaking,” said Tehlan, a native of Delhi. She is waiting for the release of her new movie ‘Varaham,’ with Suresh Gopi in the lead.
Tehlan said she had the advantage of having made her name in sports, where she learned how to deal with tough situations. She has also had a stint in IT.
“Not everyone is like that,” she said. “Some of them come to film industry as teens with little or no experience. It may be difficult for them to deal with the pulls and pressures... There is violence against women in everywhere. It may be seen more in the film industry.”

Tehlan was pessimistic about a more spirited opposition to harassment in the industry. “I do not think that women will organize against the oppressors,” she said. “When 10 people arrive looking for a chance in the film, four may be ready for any adjustment [capitulation to any demand]. Those who are not ready for adjustments will be excluded immediately. In such a scenario, those who come with a hope for stardom will be forced to make compromises. I don't think this will ever go away.”

Speaking about her career in the Malayalam film industry, she said her main problem is the language barrier in day to day communication, though she is very good at learning her dialogues with perfection.

Yet she is happy that the Malayalis have accepted her as one of their own and recognize her wherever she goes around her new home in Kochi.
It was sports and hard training that helped her role as Unnimaya in the action-oriented “Mamankam,” she said. During the shooting of the film, a sword tip injured her right sole but she returned quickly to filming.
Tehlan was the youngest ever captain of the Indian netball team, leading the country to its first silver medal at the Asian Beach Games in 2011. She is also a national basketball star, and was part of the winning team in the Indo-Singapore series in 2010. She went on to captain the team in the 7th Youth Asia Championship. She still holds the title of the youngest captain of a netball team, winning the gold medal in the 54th National Games.
Tehlan earned a degree in commerce from the Jesus and Mary College, Delhi University, and completed her MBA in human relations and marketing at Indraprastha University, Delhi.
While working in IT, she acted in the serial “Diya Aur Baati Hum” produced by Star Plus, then went on to act in “Ikyawann.” That was when a Malayalam film casting director approached with an offer. She has also acted in two Punjabi films, Arjan and Bailaras. Apart from acting, Tehlan is also active in other areas, her Prachi Tehlan Foundation aiming to empower women and girls. She also serves as the wildlife ambassador for camera manufacturer Nikon.
Though Kerala is a small state, Malayalam movies are getting huge attention everywhere thanks to the digital platforms, she noted. Now people in many languages can watch Malayalam movies digitally. Malayalam has intelligent movies. The content is also good. She said she is happy that Malayalam cinema is getting appreciation everywhere.

Tehlan has family in New Jersey and California, yet she says she is not interested in immigrate to the United States in the near future.

‘Varaham’ is directed by Sanal V Devan, starring Suresh Gopi, Suraj Venjaramood, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Tehlan and Navya Nair. Suresh Gopi appears in a different look and feel. Gopi, who had won election to Loksabha from Thrisur is federal minister now. Tehlan expects the new movie to be a hit and get her more love and opportunities in South Indian languages.

This is Suresh Gopi's 257th film, which is produced by Sanjay Padiyoor. Mumbai-based Maverick Movies Private Limited is also associated with it. 'Varaham' is a good story. It is a thriller.
Apart from Malayalam, Prachi said that she is acting in Telugu and Tamil. She has a lead role in KT Kunjumon's Gentleman-2, a Tamil movie.