TRIGGER WARNING: This article includes references to sexual harassmentJani Master, the choreographer accused of sexual harassment, is once again making headlines after posting pictures with music composer AR Rahman while working on ‘Peddi’. While Rahman faced backlash from the netizens, singer Chinmayi, who checked with the Oscar-winning composer about collaborating with Jani, he revealed that ‘he had no idea’ about the case.Chinmayi also went on to share that Jani Master’s wife, Ayesha, calls her every time she speaks about the matter, showing just how much tension still surrounds this high-profile case.
Chinmayi explains the complexity of the case
Chinmayi wrote that Jani’s case is complex as he is accused of not just sexually abusing a minor, but also grooming her and threatening her at the workplace if she refused to comply. She wrote, “The case of Jani Master is complex – but the most important aspect of it is sexual grooming – And him not only sexually abusing a minor but also threatening her at her workplace when she refused to comply. His personal ecosystem paints it as a ‘consensual relationship’ not understanding that a minor girl of 16 CANNOT GIVE CONSENT. When one is the adult, it is the adult’s responsibility to not get involved with a minor.”
Chinmayi reveals Jani’s wife asks her not to speak
Chinmayi further stated that Ayesha calls her whenever she talks about the case because they are confident of getting a favourable judgement. She added, “Jani Master is really rich and is heavily connected. The chances of the girl getting justice in this ecosystem are slim. Plus – Each time I speak about this issue, his wife calls saying dont talk about it. They are 100% sure of being proven innocent apparently – Well all the best to them. Their confidence is everything.”Chinmayi expressed concern over the broader impact of such confidence in a favourable judgement. She further wrote, “Once the favourable judgement that they are 100% of sure of getting comes through, everyone will wash their hands off and say oh, he is innocent, he can be awarded award after award, not understanding we would have collectively failed and in a direct aftermath, encouraged more such men to misuse their position of power.”
Chinmayi prays for the girl
She ended her note by pointing out the dangerous precedent this could set for others, “I can assure you – he will be around for a long time celebrated by the very masses – All I can hope and pray is that the girl also becomes successful and can prove a point to the very society that celebrates her abuser.”
About Jani Master’s case
As reported by Hindustan Times, in September of last year, Jani Master was apprehended by the police in Goa and brought to Hyderabad. A 21-year-old woman who worked as his assistant choreographer alleged that he had sexually assaulted her during a 2020 work trip to Mumbai. Jani is currently out on bail.DISCLAIMER: If you or someone you know is struggling with sexual harassment or abuse, please seek help. Numerous helplines and support resources are available.
