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Renuka Shahane Opens Up About Harrowing Casting Couch Experience
Veteran actress and director Renuka Shahane, famous for Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! and Circus, has shocked fans by exposing a disturbing casting couch incident from her early career. In a raw interview, she detailed how a powerful producer attempted to exploit her, reigniting debates about exploitation in Bollywood.
Shahane’s Brave Confession: “I Was Asked to Compromise”
During a YouTube talk show, Shahane recounted:
“Ek producer ne mujhe hotel room mein bulaya aur kaha, ‘Kaam chahiye toh compromise karo.’” (A producer called me to a hotel and said, ‘Want work? Then compromise.’)
The Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! star revealed she walked out immediately but admitted the incident scarred her. She emphasized how such predatory behavior traps newcomers desperate for roles.
Casting Couch: Bollywood’s Worst-Kept Secret
The casting couch—code for sexual bartering—has plagued the industry for decades. Despite #MeToo revelations in 2018, fear of retaliation silences many. Shahane’s disclosure underscores how power imbalances enable abuse, especially against women.
Bollywood Reacts: Swara Bhasker, Anubhav Sinha Show Support
- Swara Bhasker praised Shahane’s courage, tweeting: “Her truth highlights systemic exploitation we must fight.”
- Anubhav Sinha stressed: “We need accountability to protect artists.”
Renuka’s Advice: “Stay Strong, Seek Trusted Mentors”
Now a respected filmmaker, Shahane urged aspiring actors:
“This industry isn’t just glamour—it has predators. But integrity wins. Parents and newcomers must stay alert.”
Will Bollywood Change? The Call for Reform
While bodies like CINTAA have anti-harassment panels, critics demand stronger measures:
✔ Anonymous complaint systems
✔ Stricter punishments for offenders
✔ Mentorship programs for newcomers
Conclusion
Shahane’s bravery amplifies a long-ignored crisis. As Bollywood faces mounting pressure, will her story finally spark action?
— For more Bollywood updates, follow NextMinuteNews.
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