‘We Have Normalised Fear, Apathy and Misogyny’

One of Telugu cinema’s most articulate voices, filmmaker Nandini Reddy speaks candidly about sexism in the entertainment industry, victim-blaming, and a society that has grown disturbingly numb to injustice against women.

Excerpts:

What do you have to say about actor Sivaji’s crass comments on how women should dress?

In a country where a convicted rapist can be let off by the courts and the victim is dragged away by the police, people still find it necessary to lecture women on dressing modestly to avoid “inviting trouble.” Why should anything else shock us anymore? This is what we have become as a nation, and this is what women’s safety has been reduced to.

Why don’t more women with a voice like yours speak up? Is it fear or indifference?

It’s both — for men and women. We have become fearful and apathetic. Like people who stand around watching a road accident but do nothing to help the victims. That is what truly scares me.

Sexism and misogyny exist across Indian film industries, yet few speak up against powerful offenders. Is it fear of losing work?

It’s not just the industry — it’s everywhere, and probably worse outside. How many people have spoken out about the Unnao rape case? Are we not watching the news? We have simply grown used to the stench. Nothing shakes us anymore. Until something affects us or our families personally, no one reacts. That is the most frightening part.

Do cases like the Dileep controversy further encourage misogyny?

Everything that happens in this country on a daily basis promotes and applauds misogyny. This is not a safe country for women — no clean air, no safety, no justice in courts. Frankly, it’s not a safe country for anyone.