Singer Swagatha S Krishnan, known for popular tracks like 'Yeno Pennae' and 'Kaadhal Kanmani', has shared a deeply disturbing account of abuse. The experience, she said, forced her to leave Chennai and rebuild her life in Rishikesh.
Allegations of Abuse Inside Studio
During an interview with Sivasankari Talks, Swagatha described what she called 'a very brutal sexual abuse.' She said the incident took place inside a music composer's studio. The space, she noted, was one she once considered safe. 'It was a soundproof room... even if I screamed, no one could hear me,' she said. She added that the room was locked and had multiple cameras, including hidden ones. She alleged that the accused recorded the incident and later used the footage to threaten her.
Claims of Threats and Manipulation
According to Swagatha, the individual warned her that the recordings could be shared. She said she told him such actions were illegal, but fear stopped her from taking immediate steps. Swagatha described the accused as someone who followed a repeated pattern: gaining trust, presenting himself as supportive, creating emotional dependence, and then exploiting it. 'He targets independent women... first borrows money, then delays paying them, and slowly takes control,' she said. She added that both financial and emotional manipulation were used together.
Pattern Involving Multiple Victims
Swagatha said she later realised she was not alone. She claimed that several women had reached out to her with similar experiences. 'Many women have fallen into this trap... even now it is continuing,' she stated. She also said she has seen proof supporting these claims. Swagatha further alleged disturbing behaviour inside the studio, including secretly recording women and even children, which she described as voyeurism that left her deeply shaken.
Impact on Life and Career
The singer also spoke about the impact the incident had on her life. She said she faced shaming, false accusations, and negative narratives within the industry. 'They twisted the whole story,' she said. Swagatha added that even the accused person's family allegedly contributed to damaging her reputation. The emotional toll was severe: she struggled with self-image and underwent skin treatments to cope. 'I felt like the parts of my body he touched shouldn't exist,' she said. She also described isolating herself and dealing with intense distress. Support from her sister and therapy helped her through the period.
Decision to Take Legal Action
Although she had consulted lawyers and officials earlier, she chose not to file a complaint then. Now, she says she is ready to take legal action. 'I will definitely do it legally... so no other woman goes through this,' she said. Swagatha is widely recognised for several popular tracks from film soundtracks, including 'Yeno Pennae' from 'Ispade Rajavum Idhaya Raniyum', 'Kaadhal Kanmani' from 'Bachelor', 'Apdi Paakadhadi' from 'Jada', 'Va Kanakku' from 'Manmatha Leelai', 'Thenmozhi' from 'Kaayal', 'Raja Raja Kula' from 'Nota', 'Dirty Pondatti' from 'Kaatrin Mozhi', 'Yeththara Yeththara', and 'Aalaliloo' from 'Diya'. Disclaimer: If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, assault, or abuse, please seek immediate help. Reach out to a mental health specialist, NGO, or trusted individual. Several helplines are available to offer assistance.
