In 2015, Shine was arrested in Kerala’s first cocaine case and spent time in jail. He was acquitted only in February this year. However, within two months, he has been implicated in another drug case.
Published Apr 25, 2025 | 8:15 AM ⚊ Updated Apr 25, 2025 | 9:37 AM
Shine Tom Chacko. (X)
The Kerala Film Producers Association and the Film Chamber—two influential bodies in the Malayalam film industry—had earlier stated that some actors are using drugs and urged law enforcement to take action. However, no steps were taken until the recent controversies involving actor Shine Tom Chacko came to light.
Last week, Shine Tom Chacko made headlines for his involvement in a controversy. His Soothravakyam co-actor, Vincy Aloshious, filed a complaint with the Internal Committee (IC), alleging that Shine Tom had misbehaved with her on set. She had also alleged that he spat white powder. In the next couple of days, the actor was reportedly seen fleeing from a hotel in Kochi when the DANSAF squad of the Kerala Police arrived during a drug raid.
Two days later, Shine Tom was questioned by the police, arrested and released on station bail. Kochi City Police Commissioner Putta Vimaladitya recently said key statements are being recorded and that it’s too early to verify Shine’s claims linking the film industry to drug use. “The search for drug dealer Shajeer continues, and Shine may be questioned again,” he added.
On Thursday, 24 April, Aparna Jones, a newcomer in the industry, revealed that Shine’s conduct on the sets of the film Sootravakyam made her uncomfortable.
Aparna alleged that Shine frequently made sexual innuendos and displayed unsettling body language. “He spoke in a vulgar manner when women were around. His speech and behaviour were erratic and disturbing,” she said. The actress claimed that she chose to keep her distance and avoid conversations with Shine, fearing unpredictable reactions.
When Shine’s behaviour crossed a line, she reportedly approached Adv. Soujanya Varma, the film’s Internal Complaints Committee (IC) member, who intervened and arranged for her scenes to be completed swiftly.
Aparna also corroborated Vincy’s earlier statements, recounting an incident where Shine spat white powder on a table near her during the shoot. “Vincy’s experience is absolutely true. Shine’s behaviour is not normal,” she added.
Shine Tom Chacko reportedly “apologized” to Vincy Aloshious in response to her complaint that he had misbehaved with her during the shooting of their film Soothravakyam. The statement was made during the Internal Committee (IC) meeting held in Kochi this Tuesday, 22 April.
According to a report from Onmanorama, it is understood that the decision to settle the matter amicably was also influenced by concerns over the film’s future. During the session, the IC heard both parties, together and separately. Vincy, who came to attend the session on her own, returned after agreeing to abide by any decision to be taken by the Committee. Shine appeared for the hearing accompanied by members of his family.
Vincy had previously decided to withdraw her complaint against co-actor Shine Tom Chacko, citing a “breach of trust”. She had requested confidentiality to Film Chamber but was disheartened when the actor’s name became public, especially after Shine was linked to a drug raid at a Kochi hotel, though no drugs were found.
Expressing her disappointment, Vincy had said the issue should not affect the film or the actor’s career, emphasising the need to support talent and allow space for correction.
On the same day, Shine Tom Chacko also met with FEFKA. General secretary B Unnikrishnan stated in a press conference that Shine had admitted to using drugs. He added that Shine requested one final chance to reform and assured them he would no longer cause any problems. Unnikrishnan said the union decided to give him that last opportunity.
Director Kamal, who also serves as a mentor to Shine Tom and directed Vivekanandan Viral Aanu, in which Shine played the lead, said the actor did not create any issues during the film’s production. However, Kamal told a news channel that Shine now clearly needs de-addiction treatment. He also pointed out that it’s not just Shine—many technicians on set are also using drugs.
Meanwhile, actors Swasika and Mala Parvathi came out in support of Shine Tom Chacko, stating that he is very committed to his work.
Can these revelations change the situation? A filmmaker, speaking to South First on condition of anonymity, remarked that some people wrongly believe drug use enhances creativity. The filmmaker added that while drug use is widespread, it gains media attention in the film industry because of its glamour.
In 2015, Shine was arrested in Kerala’s first cocaine case and spent time in jail. He was acquitted only in February this year. However, within two months, he has been implicated in another drug case.
Shine is also known for his strange and unpredictable behaviour during film promotions. He has repeatedly claimed in interviews that the earth is not round, offering bizarre theories to support his view.
In some interviews, he has thrown his phone mid-conversation, leaving anchors shocked. His hyperactive behaviour has earned him both fans and critics online. Interestingly, older interviews show him as calm and composed. There is speculation that his erratic behaviour began after he started using drugs.
Shine Tom Chacko began his career as an assistant director under veteran filmmaker Kamal. He worked on more than six films with Kamal and also collaborated with director Aashiq Abu. According to Kamal, Shine was passionate about filmmaking and worked hard.
Kamal also gave him his debut acting role in the film Gaddama (2011). He also mentioned that Shine may have started using drugs after making friends in the film industry.
Shine Tom Chacko is undoubtedly a talented performer, which is why he continues to receive film offers despite facing several allegations. He is known for his dedication to his roles. His performances in films like Bheesma Parvam, Adithattu, Kuruppu, Ithihasa, and Pada have been widely appreciated.
Shine has also acted in Telugu films such as Dasara and Daaku Maharaj, as well as Tamil films like Beast and Good Bad Ugly.
Known for his exceptional acting skills, he has appeared in over 100 films. However, with ongoing investigations into Kerala’s drug problem, we’ll have to wait and see what lies ahead for the actor.
B Unnikrishnan told the media that FEFKA held a meeting with AMMA (Association of Malayalam Movie Artists) representatives. He said they cannot continue working in an environment where actors use drugs on set.
Unnikrishnan also noted that film production in Malayalam cinema has dropped significantly since the drug news broke.
B Rakesh, Secretary of the Kerala Film Producers Association, stated that they will soon decide whether Shine Tom Chacko will be allowed to work in future films. Producers, he said, are the ones investing money and have the right to make such decisions.
Meanwhile, differences have allegedly emerged between the Producers Association and FEFKA over giving Shine Tom Chacko a final chance.
Meanwhile, G Suresh Kumar alleged that some actors smoke inside their caravans. The Producers Association has received complaints from caravan owners regarding this issue.
Various associations in the Malayalam film industry are now holding discussions to tackle the drug problem. According to sources, warnings may be issued to actors involved. If the behaviour continues, stricter action is likely to follow.
(Edited by Sumavarsha)
