Actor-producer Sandra Thomas alleges drug rooms on sets: ‘Special budgets are allotted’ in Malayalam cinema

Producer Sandra Thomas has reignited the debate around drug use in the Malayalam film industry with a series of serious allegations in a recent interview. She revealed that not only is drug use rampant, but the practice has become so normalized that separate rooms and dedicated budgets are now allegedly allotted for it on film sets.

Sandra Thomas drops bombshell on drug use

“A special budget is being allotted exclusively for this. Even separate rooms are allotted for this purpose,” she said to On Manorama, adding that industry associations have failed to act decisively.

Her statements come nearly two years after she first raised concerns in 2023. Despite the growing awareness and previous warnings, Sandra believes that drug use on sets has worsened, not improved.

‘Everyone knows, but no one acts’


Sandra highlighted the industry's silence and inaction, pointing out that many insiders are aware but unwilling to intervene. “Producers are unwilling to raise a complaint because of fear it will stall their projects,” she explained. According to her, being associated with drug controversies can ruin an actor’s reputation, making it difficult for films to proceed or succeed.



She also referred to producer Listin Stephen's recent remarks, where he implied that a few individuals cannot tarnish the entire industry. Sandra questioned whether people like him are truly unaware of the extent of the issue or simply choose to turn a blind eye.

“Drugs are now openly available on sets”


Sandra Thomas emphasized that drug use isn’t limited to a specific group — it spans genders and hierarchies in the industry. “Drugs are now openly available on sets and used by people of all genders and statuses,” she said. Additionally, she stressed the importance of women producers being part of Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) to ensure safer, more accountable work environments and faster justice for victims of harassment.

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