Will Shweta Menon Become the First Woman President of AMMA?

Thiruvananthapuram – The Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) is poised for a historic moment as popular actress Shweta Menon emerges as a strong contender to become the organization’s first woman president in its three-decade history. With just two days remaining for the withdrawal of nominations for the 17-member executive committee, the path appears to be clearing for Menon following veteran actor Jagadish and Raveendran's announcement of their intent to withdraw candidacy for the presidency.

A total of 74 nomination forms have been submitted for various posts, including president, two vice-presidents, general secretary, joint secretary, treasurer, and 11 executive members. The final outcome will be confirmed by Thursday, July 31, the deadline for nomination withdrawals, determining whether Menon will assume the role unopposed or face an election.

Jagadish, a 70-year-old actor and comedian, revealed to IANS that his decision to step back was influenced by consultations with senior actors Mammootty, Mohanlal, and Union Minister of State Suresh Gopi. He noted a growing sentiment within AMMA for a woman to lead the organization, a view echoed by the industry stalwarts he consulted. “In 2021, I withdrew my nomination when there was a call for two women vice-presidents. Now, with the talk of a woman leading AMMA, I felt I shouldn’t stand in the way,” Jagadish said. However, he cautioned that Menon’s ascent to the presidency is not yet assured, as four other contenders remain in the race. If they do not withdraw, AMMA’s approximately 500 eligible members will vote in the election scheduled for August 15.

Menon’s potential leadership comes at a pivotal time for AMMA, which has been under scrutiny following the release of the Justice Hema Committee report in August 2024. The report exposed systemic issues of sexual harassment, exploitation, and a male-dominated power structure within the Malayalam film industry, leading to the resignation of AMMA’s entire executive committee, including then-president Mohanlal. Allegations of sexual misconduct against prominent members, such as general secretary Siddique and joint secretary Baburaj, sparked widespread outrage and prompted calls for reform. Menon herself demanded Baburaj’s resignation, emphasizing the need for accountability regardless of seniority. The controversy highlighted the urgent need for greater representation of women in leadership roles, a cause Menon has publicly supported, advocating for systemic changes within AMMA.

If elected, Menon would not only break the glass ceiling as AMMA’s first woman president but also inherit the responsibility of steering the organization through its ongoing reforms. Her prior role as AMMA’s first female vice-president in 2021 and her vocal stance against industry misconduct position her as a candidate committed to change. As the nomination withdrawal deadline approaches, all eyes are on whether Menon will assume the presidency unopposed or emerge victorious in a democratic contest, marking a new chapter for AMMA.