The suicide attempt by a woman make-up artist over “financial distress” following her alleged suspension by the Cine and Video Hair Stylist Association has left the Bengali film industry — also known as Tollywood — in shock with allegations of a mistreatment of artists and technicians.
Amid outrage and protests over the incident, the president of the Federation of Cine Technicians, Swarup Biswas, on Tuesday said no one is being stopped from getting work. “It’s a creative world. There is no threat, and no one is forced not to work,” Biswas said, denying any knowledge that the make-up artist was allegedly banned from working.
The hairstylist, whose identity has not been disclosed, allegedly poured kerosene on herself Saturday night in an attempt to end her life when her daughter’s intervention saved her.
In a note left that she wrote before taking the extreme step, she claimed to have been suspended from the Cine and Video Hair Stylist Association on May 1 and alleged that a powerful lobby of technicians was preventing her from getting work.
She had recorded an audio statement on her phone and also wrote a note, naming 11 people, before attempting to kill herself. A police complaint has been lodged.
Biswas said a committee has been formed to look into the allegations levelled by her. “If the allegations are found to be true, we will take proper action,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Directors Association of Eastern India (DAEI) said it will provide all support to the hairstylist.
DAEI president Subrata Sen said no obstacles should be put in her way so that she can work on projects she likes.
“As part of the Federation of Cine Technicians and Workers of Eastern India (FCTWEI), DAEI will protect the interest of all the stakeholders, including our hairstylist, and no obstacles should be put in her way in getting projects she likes,” he said.
DAEI secretary Sudeshna Roy said the association will extend all support to the police for the investigation.
Actor Dev said it was unfortunate if an experienced hairstylist was not getting assignments. “I wish her speedy recovery,” the TMC MP told reporters.
CPI(M) leader Mohammad Salim said the incident highlighted the prevalence of a “threat culture” in various professions, including Tollywood.
Sources in the Bengali entertainment industry said the hairstylist was suspended by her union, the Cine and Video Hairstylist Association, on May 1 for “insubordination and indiscipline” for three months, following complaints by other members.
— With PTI Inputs
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