In a recent episode of "The Male Feminist," National Award-winning actress Parvathy Thiruvothu shared harrowing experiences of childhood harassment, shedding light on the pervasive nature of such incidents. Parvathy, known for her roles in films like "Take Off," "Uyire," "Qarib Qarib Single," and "Bangalore Days," opened up about the lasting impact of these encounters, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and protection for children.
"We are born, and then we are assaulted," Parvathy stated, recounting instances of harassment by strangers. She described a specific incident at a railway station where she was physically assaulted by a stranger while walking with her father, an experience that left her in pain and confusion. She also recalled instances of eve-teasing and flashing, which she couldn't fully comprehend as a child.
Parvathy highlighted the disturbing reality that many women face, where their bodies are impacted by such experiences from a young age. She recounted how her mother taught her to be vigilant on the streets, advising her to avoid window shopping and to pay attention to men's hands, illustrating the precautions women often have to take to protect themselves.
Speaking at the MAMI Mumbai Film Festival in 2018, Parvathy revealed that it took her 17 years to realize that she had been assaulted when she was three or four years old, and another 12 years to speak about it.
In the candid conversation on "The Male Feminist", Parvathy also discussed her experiences with sex education, dating, depression, and the challenges of navigating the film industry as a woman. She reflected on a period in her life when she felt "lost" and struggled with depression, emphasizing the importance of therapy, self-awareness, and overcoming shame in reclaiming oneself.
Parvathy's willingness to share her experiences contributes to the ongoing dialogue surrounding harassment and assault, particularly in the context of the #MeToo movement. By speaking openly about her past, she hopes to raise awareness and encourage others to come forward and seek support. Parvathy is a member of the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC), an organization that supports women in the Malayalam film industry.
Parvathy is set to appear in "The Storm," produced by Hrithik Roshan's HRX Films, and "I, Nobody".
