Who Is Sandra Thomas? Know About Actress-Producer Claiming 'Budgets' Are Allotted For Drugs In Malayalam Film Industry
In a shocking revelation that has reignited concerns about drug use in the Malayalam film industry, actress-producer Sandra Thomas alleged that not only is drug abuse rampant on film sets, but it has now been normalised to the extent that separate rooms and dedicated budgets are being allocated for it.
Speaking to On Manorama in a recent interview, Sandra claimed, "A special budget is being allotted exclusively for this. Even separate rooms are allotted for this purpose." She also criticised industry associations for failing to take strong and decisive action despite repeated red flags.
Who is Sandra Thomas?
Sandra is known for her performances in Malayalam films like Amen, Mimics Parade, O' Faby, Peruchazhi, Aakashvani, Aadu, Kili Poyi and Zachariayude Garbhinikal. She is also known for producing Zachariayude Garbhinikal and Philips and the Monkey Pen.
She tied the knot with Wilson John Thomas in July 2016, and the couple welcomed their twin daughters in 2018.
Sandra co-founded the film production company Friday Film House alongside producer Vijay Babu. However, following a fallout between the two, she parted ways with the company. After exiting Friday Film House, she went on to establish her own independent production banner, Sandra Thomas Productions.
She is quite active on Instagram and also runs her own YouTube channel.
Sandra Thomas makes shocking revealations
The actress-turned-producer first raised similar concerns about drug use in 2023, but she now believes the problem has only worsened. "Producers are unwilling to raise a complaint because of fear it will stall their projects. Everyone knows, but no one acts," she said during the interview.
According to her, the fear of reputational damage and the potential for a project to be shelved has led to inaction.
Sandra made it clear that drug use isn't restricted to any particular group. "Drugs are now openly available on sets and used by people of all genders and statuses," she reportedly said.
She also called for stronger institutional safeguards, particularly for women in the industry. She advocated for more women producers to be included in Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs), which handle cases of workplace harassment. According to her, this would promote quicker access to justice and a more accountable work environment.
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