A growing concern has emerged after a female artist from the industry questioned the way some photographers film them during public events. The debate began when actor Sapthami Gowda spoke about the issue and asked why female actors attending film events are often captured from inappropriate angles. Her question quickly gathered support from several voices in the industry, including actor Ramya. Now senior actor Shivarajkumar has also addressed the issue and expressed disappointment.
During film events, some paparazzi and photographers have been accused of deliberately filming female actors from vulgar or suggestive angles and posting those images and videos on social media to gain attention and views. Many in the industry say that such visuals focus unnecessarily on their bodies rather than their work or the purpose of the event. What began as a concern raised by Sapthami Gowda has now grown into a larger discussion within the Kannada film fraternity.
Supporting the voices raised by many female actors, Shivarajkumar said it is unfortunate that even today people have to be reminded to respect women. He urged photographers and content creators to act with conscience and responsibility. “It is our misfortune that even today we have to ask people to respect women. Please work with a sense of conscience. Do not hurt the dignity of women,” the actor expressed his concern on social media.
Women artistes from the industry also released a statement addressing the issue. They said women in cinema are repeatedly facing an uncomfortable situation where their images and videos are filmed from inappropriate angles during public appearances. According to the statement, these visuals are often circulated online with deliberate zoom-ins that shift attention away from their work.
The artistes said that as women working in cinema they have come together to address a serious concern that continues to occur at public events. They pointed out that such behaviour is disrespectful and humiliating even if only a few individuals are responsible. The statement also made it clear that they attend public events for their films and their craft, not to be reduced to viral clips filmed from objectionable angles.
They added that intentionally filming them in such a manner directly affects their dignity and cannot be treated as normal. The artists stressed that they will not accept or tolerate this behaviour any longer.
The discussion has now opened up a wider conversation within the industry about responsible coverage of film events and the need to maintain respect for artists. With actors like Shivrajkumar supporting the voices raised by Saptami Gowda and others, many believe this moment could become an important step towards setting clearer boundaries and ensuring that the focus remains on cinema and creativity rather than sensational visuals.