Ananya Panday, currently promoting her debut web series Call Me Bae, addressed the issue of women’s safety in the film industry in an interview with India Today. She highlighted the importance of creating a dedicated group for women’s welfare, similar to the Hema Committee, which was established in Bollywood.
Call for Hema Committee Across Industries
During the interview, Ananya emphasized, “It’s very important for every industry to have a committee like the Hema Committee where women come together and start something like that.” She stressed that while women are taking the lead on these issues, more needs to be done. She observed that although conversations about women’s safety have started, “there is still a long way to go”, with larger battles yet to be fought.
Safety Measures in the Industry
Ananya also pointed out that safety measures have improved within the film industry. Contracts now include clauses related to women’s safety, and helpline numbers are provided on call sheets to assist in filing complaints, even anonymously. She believes these steps are essential but notes that the issue extends beyond just the film industry, urging that “it’s important we address this as quickly as possible.”
On the Work Front
Ananya Panday is also working on Shankara, a biopic with Akshay Kumar, and her upcoming series, Call Me Bae. The show is an eight-part light-hearted comedy-drama that follows the story of Bella Chowdhary, a wealthy heiress turned hustler, played by Ananya. The series stars Vir Das, Gurfateh Pirzada, Varun Sood, and others in pivotal roles.
Ananya’s call for industry-wide committees highlights the need for continued advocacy and action toward ensuring women’s safety across all sectors.
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