In a historic development, the Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes (AMMA) will, for the first time, be led by women. At the AMMA elections held in Kochi, Kerala, on August 15, 2025, actress Shwetha Menon was elected as President, while Kukku Parameswaran won the post of General Secretary. This landmark victory marks a new chapter in the association’s leadership history, which has been traditionally dominated by male office-bearers since its inception.
Women Take the Helm of AMMA
Shwetha Menon and Kukku Parameswaran’s victory is being seen as a progressive step in Malayalam cinema’s organisational leadership, reflecting the growing demand for inclusivity and representation in the industry.
In the elections, more than 290 members out of 504 exercised their votes. Shwetha Menon and Kukku Parameswaran defeated the panel led by actors Devan and Raveendran, who were contesting for the President and General Secretary positions, respectively.
This outcome not only highlights a shift in voting patterns within the industry but also signifies greater trust in women leaders to address contemporary challenges faced by artists in Malayalam cinema.
New Office Bearers of AMMA
The elections also saw the selection of other key office bearers, completing the association’s new leadership team:
- Shwetha Menon – President
- Kukku Parameswaran – General Secretary
- Unni Shivapal – Treasurer
- Jayan Cherthala – Vice President
- Lakshmipriya – Vice President
With this team, AMMA begins a new phase in its history, where gender inclusivity and diversity in leadership are expected to bring fresh perspectives and reform-driven approaches to the organisation.
Significance of the 2025 AMMA Elections
The 2025 AMMA elections are significant not only because women have assumed leadership for the first time but also because they reflect a changing landscape in Malayalam cinema’s governance structure.
AMMA, established in 1994, is one of the most influential associations in the Malayalam film industry, representing the interests of over 500 members including actors, directors, and technicians. Over the years, it has played a critical role in resolving disputes, safeguarding artistes’ welfare, and promoting the growth of the Malayalam film industry.
By electing women leaders, AMMA members have sent a strong message about their intent to embrace gender balance, inclusivity, and progressive leadership.
What Lies Ahead for AMMA Under Women’s Leadership
With Shwetha Menon at the helm, AMMA is expected to take proactive steps in addressing issues like workplace safety, equal opportunities, and welfare schemes for artistes. Kukku Parameswaran, as General Secretary, is likely to focus on strengthening administrative efficiency, transparency, and member engagement.
The inclusion of leaders like Lakshmipriya and Jayan Cherthala as Vice Presidents ensures that the leadership team brings together diverse viewpoints from across the film fraternity.
The election of Shwetha Menon as AMMA President and Kukku Parameswaran as General Secretary is a historic milestone for the Malayalam film industry. For the first time in its three-decade history, AMMA will be guided by women leaders, signaling a transformative era of inclusivity and progressive decision-making.
As AMMA moves forward with its new leadership, the Malayalam cinema industry anticipates reforms that will ensure greater support for artistes, fair practices, and a stronger organisational framework for the future.
