Actress Sonia Malhar reveals past harassment experience, explains why she’s withholding actor’s name

Actress Sonia Malhar recently shared a harrowing experience from the early days of her film career.

Recalling an incident from 2013, Sonia revealed to the press that she was harassed by a young actor during a shoot in Thodupuzha. At the time, she was new to acting and found herself in a distressing situation when the actor suddenly grabbed her while she was returning from the restroom. The shoot, arranged by a production controller, took place in a location resembling a godown, which added to her unease.

Sonia described feeling terrified and breaking down in tears due to the actor’s unexpected behavior. However, the actor quickly apologized when he saw her reaction. When she confronted him, the actor explained that he liked her nature and thought his actions were appropriate at the time. He also commented on her outfit, a black T-shirt and blue jeans, as part of his misguided reasoning. Although Sonia completed the three to four-day shoot, the emotional impact of the incident stayed with her long after she returned home.

Discussing the incident with her husband, Sonia was advised to reconsider her acting career. She acknowledged that newcomers like her, without strong industry connections, often struggle to stand for themselves. Despite this, family responsibilities eventually led her back to the cinema.

Sonia decided to share her experience in response to recent reactions denying the findings of the Hema Committee report, which addresses issues of harassment in Mollywood. She clarified that while she never faced further misconduct from the actor and they remain on good terms, it’s crucial to address such incidents to dispel misconceptions. Sonia chose not to reveal the actor's name, emphasizing that they are now friends and she doesn't want to tarnish the actor’s reputation as he has his own family now.