On September 21, 2024, the Tollywood film industry was shaken when well-known choreographer Jani Master was arrested in connection with a serious sexual harassment case. The accusations against Jani, who has worked on numerous high-profile films and choreographed for leading actors, have sent shockwaves through the industry, leading to his suspension from several film projects and distancing from political connections.
The case has captured widespread media attention due to the severity of the allegations and the high-profile nature of Jani’s career.
The Allegations and Arrest
The sexual harassment allegations were brought forward by a junior choreographer who accused Jani Master of assaulting her on multiple occasions over the last six years. The victim, who first met Jani Master at an event in 2017, began working as his assistant choreographer in 2019. According to the victim, the assaults took place both at outdoor shoot locations and at her residence. What makes the case particularly distressing is the claim that Jani began harassing her when she was a minor, starting at the age of 16.
As reported, the victim submitted a detailed 40-page document to the Telangana State Commission for Women, outlining the abuses she suffered over the years. She alleged that Jani not only physically assaulted her but also mentally harassed her during photoshoots and rehearsals. Additionally, she claimed that Jani threatened to ruin her career if she spoke out about the incidents, and even went as far as to pressure her into converting her religion and marrying him.
Legal Proceedings and Industry Fallout
Following the victim’s detailed complaint, the Narsingi police booked Jani Master under several serious charges, including those under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. This added weight to the case, given the revelation that the harassment began when the victim was still a minor. In response to the seriousness of the allegations, the Telangana State Commission for Women took swift action, calling for police protection for the complainant.
The news of Jani Master’s arrest quickly led to his suspension from the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce, and he was barred from several film workers’ unions. In a further blow to his reputation, Jani’s political affiliations came under scrutiny. He was closely associated with actor-politician Pawan Kalyan’s Jana Sena Party, which immediately distanced itself from him. The party issued an official statement that Jani Master would no longer be involved in any of their activities following the registration of a zero FIR against him.
Industry and Public Reactions
The revelations about Jani Master’s alleged actions have sparked a wave of shock and anger across the Telugu film industry. Several industry insiders expressed their dismay, while social media platforms have been flooded with reactions, many calling for a thorough investigation and strict action. Notably, Poonam Kaur, a popular actress, publicly demanded that influential figures in the industry, including filmmakers like Trivikram Srinivas, take a stand against sexual harassment and support victims of such abuse.
There are also growing calls within the industry to ensure the strict enforcement of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act in workplaces, and to ensure that robust internal committees are established to prevent such incidents in the future.
What Lies Ahead?
As the case progresses, Jani Master remains in judicial custody while the investigation continues. The legal proceedings are expected to take time, and there are already indications that the case could lead to a broader conversation about harassment within the entertainment industry, similar to what the #MeToo movement has done in other parts of the world. The outcome of this case will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for the Tollywood industry.
With Jani’s once-stellar career now in jeopardy, his reputation and future projects are at risk. At present, the focus remains on ensuring that justice is served for the victim, and the Telugu film industry must reckon with the challenges of creating a safer and more inclusive environment for all its members.
