In a recent statement made by Malayalam actor Tini Tom, he claimed that drug use is rampant in the Malayalam film industry. He said, "I noticed that his (major actor) teeth had decayed due to excessive drug usage. Many people say that he takes drugs to perform better. Today, it’s his teeth but tomorrow it could be his bones. We should be addicted to arts but not drugs." Tini Tom's statement has caused a stir in the industry, with many reacting to his claims.
Actor Dhyan Sreenivasan responded to Tini's statement by saying that drugs can’t be forced on anyone and those who take it are aware it’s wrong. "Those who decide to harm themselves with drugs, they will. If Tini Tom's son knows it's wrong to use drugs and that it's harmful, he won't. No one is forcing it on him." Dhyan's comments suggest that drug use is a personal choice and individuals who use drugs are aware of the risks involved.
Last month, popular Malayalam actors Shane Nigam and Sreenath Bhasi were banned from the industry after repeated complaints of bad behaviour on film sets. Producer and Kerala Film Producers head M Ranjith alleged that both Shane and Sreenath were often under the influence of drugs on the film sets, which created a lot of nuisance to the respective film producers and their crew. The ban highlights the industry's concern about drug use and its impact on the workplace.
Tini Tom's statement has also raised questions about the industry's responsibility towards its young actors. He said, "My son recently got a chance to act as the child of a major actor but my wife refused to allow it. My wife is worried for him. Dangerous times ahead." His comments suggest that the industry is not a safe place for aspiring actors and that more needs to be done to protect them.
The issue of drug use in the film industry is not new, and many other industries have faced similar issues. However, Tini Tom's statement and the ban of Shane Nigam and Sreenath Bhasi highlight the need for the industry to take action to address the issue. While drug use may be a personal choice, the impact it has on the workplace cannot be ignored, and the industry has a responsibility to ensure the safety of its workers.
