Bengali Film Hairstylist's Desperate Plea Sparks Industry Outrage

A female hairstylist in the Bengali film and TV industry attempted to suicide by setting herself on fire, alleging she was denied work by a powerful lobby within the technicians' association. She identified 10 individuals and claimed financial strain and despair as contributing factors. Industry figures expressed solidarity and called for an end to bullying.

A female hairstylist working in the Bengali film and television industry allegedly attempted suicide by setting herself ablaze, claiming a powerful lobby within the technicians' association had prevented her from securing work since May, police stated on Sunday.

Just before her attempt late Saturday evening, the woman left a voice-recorded statement and a handwritten note naming 10 individuals she blamed for her situation. A police complaint has been lodged.

The Federation of Cine Technicians and Workers of Eastern India said they will investigate her allegations.

Family members saved the woman, who had doused herself in kerosene, and she was admitted to a state-run hospital. She was discharged Sunday.

In her recordings and note, she accused influential members of the Cine and Video Hairstylist Association of treating her vindictively.

"I wasn't allowed to join projects independently or without their approval, causing severe financial strain. My family has been on the brink of starvation for months," she alleged in her note.

She said this compelled her to attempt suicide, naming 10 colleagues as responsible.

Industry sources claim she was suspended for insubordination on May 1 for three months but was free to work after the period ended. They assert that project selection rests solely with production houses.

Actor Sreelekha Mitra expressed concern over who would take responsibility for her suicide bid. "Who does she turn to for justice?" she questioned in a Facebook post.

Actor Sudipta Chakraborty supported the woman, noting her 22-year industry tenure. "I'll stand by her and protest any injustice," she said.

The Directors Association of Eastern India called for unity against the "threat culture" in the industry, issuing a statement encouraging all stakeholders to voice opposition against entrenched misdeeds and confirming the hairstylist's need for prolonged home counseling.

Swarup Biswas, president of the Federation of Cine Technicians and Workers of Eastern India, said a committee will investigate the discrimination claims.

(With inputs from agencies.)