Meet actress who once faced casting couch but fearlessly stood her ground in industry, now ruling OTT, her name is…
The actress reveals the uncomfortable realities of casting couch experiences she faced in both Bollywood and South cinema.
Actress Surveen Chawla, known for her brilliant performances in projects like Criminal Justice, Mandala Murders, and Andhera, has revealed the darker side of the entertainment industry. Despite years of experience in both Bollywood and South cinema, she recalls confronting uncomfortable and exploitative situations, highlighting that the glamour of the film world often hides harsh realities.
What happened behind the camera?
Speaking candidly about her experiences, Surveen recounted a particularly unsettling incident with a director. “I had gone to a filmmaker’s office for work discussions. We were talking in his cabin, and he asked me about my marriage, my husband, and how married life was going. It was just normal conversation until I was leaving,” she shared.
Surveen revealed that as she opened the door to exit, the director suddenly leaned in and tried to kiss her. “I had to push him back and asked, ‘What are you trying to do here?’ I just left immediately,” she added. The incident left a lasting impression on her, showing the audacity some professionals display under the guise of power and influence.
Were there more incidents?
Unfortunately, this was not an isolated case. Surveen also spoke about a national award-winning director who didn’t speak Hindi and allegedly used his assistant to convey inappropriate intentions. “‘His assistant hinted that he wanted to spend time with me,’” Surveen said. “I told them clearly that I was not willing. I said, ‘Sir, you are knocking on the wrong door. I am not here to compromise myself for work.’ I will never forget that moment.”
How Surveen stood her ground
Despite these challenges, Surveen has managed to build a respected career across both film industries. From Sacred Games to Rana Naidu, her performances have been praised for their authenticity and depth. She emphasises that standing firm against exploitation is crucial and that sharing these experiences can inspire other actors to uphold their dignity in an industry often criticised for power imbalances.
Surveen Chawla’s revelations shed light on the systemic challenges within the entertainment industry. While audiences admire the glamour on screen, stories like hers remind viewers that talent alone does not shield artists from exploitation. Her courage in speaking out reinforces the ongoing conversation about workplace safety, respect, and accountability in film industries worldwide.
Highlights:
- Surveen Chawla recalls facing casting couch incidents in both Bollywood and South cinema.
- A director attempted to kiss her, and another used an assistant to convey inappropriate intentions.
- Surveen firmly rejected all advances and continues to excel in her acting career.
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