AMMA president Shwetha Menon slams YouTuber’s ‘insincere’ apology to Gouri G Kishan over his body-shaming remarks: ‘We, all women, stand with her’

Actor and Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) president Shwetha Menon on Sunday criticised the apology issued by a YouTuber to actress Gouri G Kishan over his alleged body-shaming remarks, saying it did not appear genuine.The reaction came a day after the YouTuber posted a video apologising for the question he asked Gouri during a recent press conference in Tamil Nadu.“I don’t feel that his statement was an apology... His body language said otherwise. We, all women, stand with Gouri Kishan — irrespective of any industry,” said Shwetha Menon.The YouTuber had earlier claimed his comments were misunderstood and that he did not intend to hurt the actress.

Gouri G Kishan’s response to the incident

The controversy erupted when Gouri G Kishan, known for her work in Tamil, Malayalam, and Telugu films, was asked an inappropriate question about her weight during a press conference for her upcoming Tamil film Others on Thursday.Speaking to ANI about the incident, Gouri recalled, “My co-actor was asked, ‘We see you picking her up in some romance sequences, how was her weight like?’ The second question to the director was that it was a miscasting because the hero is tall and I am out of shape or short...

He then defended it for a long time.”She added, “For some people, women are just there and shouldn’t have an opinion. I was sidelined for the same reason. The fact that nobody spoke up is like everybody is ready to let go. What I want to do with my body is my choice. Such things can open up issues surrounding mental health, self-confidence, and self-esteem.”

Following the incident, social media has been flooded with messages of solidarity for Gouri from actors, filmmakers, and technicians across industries.

Both AMMA and the South Indian Artistes’ Association (Nadigar Sangam) have extended support to the actress, condemning the insensitive remarks.

Sarath Kumar calls journalist’s question ‘below the belt’

Actor and BJP leader Sarath Kumar also condemned the incident, calling the YouTuber’s remarks “completely unacceptable.”Speaking to the media, Sarath said, “It is condemnable and below the belt to ask such a question to a woman. Respect for women is essential in any civilised society, and what he has done is completely wrong.”