In a surprising turn of events early Sunday morning, Malayalam directors Khalid Rahman and Ashraf Hamza were arrested in Kochi for allegedly possessing cannabis during a raid conducted by the excise department. The incident has raised eyebrows within the film industry and sparked discussions about drug use among filmmakers.
The raid took place around 2 AM on April 27, 2025, at a flat reportedly rented by cinematographer Sameer Thahir. During the operation, officials seized 1.63 grams of hybrid ganja from the directors and their friend, Shalif Mohammed, who was also present at the location.
According to an excise official, "1.63 grams of hybrid ganja was seized from them. A case was registered against them under various sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act." Following their arrest, the trio was released on station bail shortly after.
The incident has not only put the directors in the spotlight but has also prompted the Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA) to take action. President Sibi Malayil confirmed that both Rahman and Hamza will be suspended in light of their arrest. He stated that this decision is part of a broader initiative to address rising concerns about drug use in the Malayalam film industry.
Malayil emphasized the need for stricter measures, noting, "As there are several cases of an increase in drug abuse inside the Malayalam film industry, we have decided to take strict action." In a bid to combat this issue, FEFKA has established a seven-member committee that has been monitoring film locations since March to ensure a drug-free environment.
Despite the suspension, Rahman and Hamza's recent works have garnered attention. Khalid Rahman, known for his films like "Anuraga Karikkinvellam," "Unda," and the recently released "Alappuzha Gymkhana," which has received a 3.5-star rating from ETimes, is currently facing scrutiny. On the other hand, Ashraf Hamza has made a mark with films such as "Bheemante Vazhi" and "Sulaikha Manzil." Their latest outing, "Alappuzha Gymkhana," is still running in theaters, showcasing the directors' ongoing contributions to the industry.
The timing of this incident is particularly notable as it follows the recent arrest of actor Shine Tom Chacko, who was apprehended in a drug-related case after attempting to flee from a hotel during a raid. This series of events has highlighted the growing concern regarding drug use within the Malayalam film community.
FEFKA has expressed its commitment to cooperating fully with law enforcement in any investigations related to drug use in the industry. Malayil stated that the organization is dedicated to maintaining a clean and professional environment for filmmakers and artists.
As the investigation continues, the Malayalam film industry is left to grapple with the implications of these arrests and the broader issue of drug use among its members. The community's response to these incidents will likely shape the future of how such matters are handled within the industry.
In the wake of this incident, it remains to be seen how FEFKA and the filmmakers will address the challenges posed by drug-related activities and what measures will be put in place to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The ongoing scrutiny may lead to a reevaluation of practices and policies within the industry, as stakeholders seek to restore public trust and ensure the integrity of Malayalam cinema.
