Malayalam cinema is shaken by serious allegations against filmmaker Chidambaram, a man known for directing the popular film Manjummel Boys. Kerala's Ernakulam Town South police confirmed on Monday, March 2, 2026, that a complaint has been registered against him in response to an actress's complaint. Accused of sexual harassment by the director, the statement is a renewed focus on safety and accountability in the film industry.
The complainant said that in 2022, Chidambaram sexually misbehaved with her at an apartment in Kochi city. So far though the matter has been said to have occurred years ago, the complaint by her now allows it to be revealed. The police responded to the complaint and filed a case against the director.
Chidambaram has been charged, per Section 74 (outraging the modesty of a woman) and Section 75 (sexual harassment offences) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). These sections include crimes that affect women, their safety, and dignity, directly. The case registration is the starting point for the subsequent legal process where investigations, and the possibility of trial can begin.
The news ignited discussion in the Malayalam film scene as well as among viewers. Manjummel Boys was celebrated as a major success, with its director lauded for his creative vision. But these accusations also loomed over his career and created a challenge to the culture of silence around harassment in cinema. Some would argue that the cases emphasize the need for safer spaces for women in the entertainment industry.
The case is still under investigation but public response has been strong. Advocates for the complainant stress the importance of listening to survivors and striving for justice. Others wait for the investigation and then make an opinion. The incident has illustrated once again that there is something to be said for accountability, no matter how famous an individual may be.
The sexual harassment case against Chidambaram is a matter of serious gravity that will unfold in the coming weeks. Currently, the police have filed the charges and investigations are now underway. The case highlights the need for widespread awareness, legal action and cultural change to protect women in all areas of life, including movie fields.
