Lakshmi Manchu has raised her voice against alleged body-shaming and ageist remarks made by a senior journalist during a recent interview. The actor reportedly faced criticism over her clothing choices, with comments suggesting they were “inappropriate” for a woman in her 40s and a mother. In response, Lakshmi filed a complaint with the Telangana Film Chamber of Commerce (TFCC), calling for accountability and a public apology.
In a statement reported by Cinemaexpress, she said, “India is a country that reveres women as Shakti, yet when we step into professional spaces, we are subjected to casual misogyny, humiliation, and disrespect. This cannot continue. I owe it not only to myself but to the many young women who look up to me to call this out.”
Lakshmi emphasized that she welcomes tough questions but draws the line at cruelty disguised as journalism. She urged the TFCC to take concrete action so no other woman has to endure such treatment, stating, “Respect is not optional. Accountability is not negotiable.”
Addressing unspoken bias against divorced women in the industry, she cited cases where female actors were unofficially blacklisted after their divorces, contrasting it with the continued careers of male counterparts. Without naming anyone directly, she noted that women often face restrictions after marriage or motherhood while men continue unaffected.
Lakshmi’s complaint and comments come amid the promotion of Daksha: A Deadly Conspiracy, released on September 20, marking a bold statement on respect, equality, and women’s rights in the film industry.