Is Purdah the Best Shield Against Male Producers? Sandra Thomas Speaks Out

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Sandra Thomas advocates for women's safety in the film industry.
- She protests against the current leadership of the Kerala Film Producers Association.
- Her actions aim to initiate change and challenge longstanding monopolies.
- Thomas emphasizes the importance of safe spaces for women.
- She has a rich history in both acting and production.
Kochi, July 26 (NationPress) In a bold move within the male-dominated Kerala Film Producers Association, actor and producer Sandra Thomas surprised many by arriving at the office clad in a purdah on Saturday. She asserted that this attire is the most effective way to evade the predatory gazes of male producers.
Thomas donned the traditional Muslim women's garment to submit her nomination for the upcoming elections set for August 14.
Following her nomination filing, she shared with the media that under the current leadership, this outfit provides the safest form of protection.
“This is also my form of protest against the management of this association, which includes individuals named in the FIR stemming from my complaint. The atmosphere here is not safe for women, given the numerous predatory eyes around,” she stated.
Engaged in a prolonged struggle against the existing leadership of the Association, Thomas aims to bring about a change by electing a new set of office bearers, thus dismantling the longstanding dominance of a select group. She is contesting these elections to disrupt this monopoly.
She pledged to initiate a positive transformation if elected.
Having launched her production career in 2012 alongside Vijay Babu, she has produced nine films and acted in several others. After their split, they settled a case amicably.
Subsequently, she established her own production company, and in 2014, one of her films received the Kerala State Special Jury Award.
Beginning her acting career in 1991, she ventured into production in 2012, with her most recent film, Nalla Nilavulla Rathiri, released in 2023.
In addition to her film endeavors, Thomas has also been active in the television industry.