Veteran actor Mallika Sukumaran has weighed in on the ongoing controversies surrounding the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA), urging the organisation’s leadership to treat the issues more seriously and take stricter action against misconduct within the body.
Speaking on the Milestone Makers podcast, Mallika said that AMMA president Shweta Menon and secretary Kukku Parameswaran must handle the situation firmly, warning that continued controversies could damage the organisation’s image as well as Shweta’s reputation as president. “Shweta is a good president, but even she faces several obstacles there,” Mallika said. “I used to wonder why she was not speaking more strongly about certain matters. If these issues are not handled strictly, Shweta too will earn a bad name. She must realise that.”
The Bro Daddy actor was referring to the recent controversies within AMMA involving Drishyam 3 actor Ansiba Hassan and Tini Tom. Ansiba had levelled serious allegations against Tini, including claims of character assassination and communal remarks, following her resignation from AMMA’s executive committee.
Mallika questioned why the organisation appeared unable to take strong disciplinary action against individuals accused of serious misconduct. Referring to an earlier controversy involving her son, actor-director Prithviraj Sukumaran, she said AMMA had previously been firm enough to demand an apology from him, but seemed reluctant to act similarly in more serious situations. “An organisation that knew how to make Prithviraj apologise should also be able to make those who have done far worse things apologise,” she remarked.
Mallika further criticised the way internal issues within AMMA were becoming public controversies before members themselves were fully informed about them. She said it was embarrassing for senior members of the organisation and stressed that the president and secretary were elected specifically to correct unhealthy trends within the body. “If the leadership itself is divided, how will governance happen?” she asked.
The actor also took aim at what she described as AMMA’s increasing focus on sponsorship-driven events and celebrations rather than organisational discipline and welfare activities. She expressed discomfort over temple funds and offerings being used for celebratory programmes, although she added that it was a good thing if such contributions ultimately helped someone in need.
Mallika praised former AMMA office-bearer Baburaj for previously bringing sponsorships from reputed institutions, but said the organisation was now in a state of confusion. She urged the current leadership not to treat AMMA casually and instead approach its responsibilities with seriousness and accountability.