Click here to follow Screen Digital on YouTube and stay updated with the latest from the world of cinema.
© IE Online Media Services Pvt Ltd
Tags:
Renowned film and television actor Indira Krishnan made some explosive revelations recently, which once again drew attention to the unsafe conditions women face in the film industry and how they are often expected to submit to unwelcome sexual advances from bigwigs to continue working and secure roles. Maintaining that she has encountered such misfortunes more frequently in the South than in the Hindi industry, Indira stated that she has also lost a couple of substantial projects because she didn’t comply with these demands. Indira will next be seen in Ranbir Kapoor-starrer Ramayana as Kausalya.
Revealing that she has experienced casting couch incidents more than once, she told Bollywood Bubble, “Absolutely, I have felt this, not just once but many times. Especially, I wouldn’t say it happened more in the Hindi film industry or in Mumbai, but it happened in the South. I had been finalised for a very big project by a major filmmaker. And we had some differences of opinion regarding the project. I was all set to go (with the project), but at the last moment, as it sometimes happens, one small thing ruined the entire relationship. Just one line, one statement, and everything was over.”
She continued: “I remember thinking, ‘Oh no…’ I closed my eyes and said to myself, ‘Shit, this film also has slipped through my fingers.’ When I got home, I typed a message to him because the way he was talking, his body language, and his expectations had all grown considerably. And with that, the pressure also started to build; I felt I couldn’t handle the situation. I thought, ‘What if the shoot starts tomorrow and this relationship soured?’ So, I very respectfully said, ‘Sir, main apna talent bechne aayi hoon, apne aap ko nahi (I am here to sell my talent, not myself).’ Perhaps my words were a bit harsh, but I felt that the clearer you are, the better. It helps you maintain your momentum, builds your energy, and allows you to move on.”
Sharing that this was neither the first nor the last of such casting couch incidents she has faced, Indira Krishnan added, “I have lost some really good projects because of it.” She also revealed this as the juncture when she turned to television for a career. Pointing out that the small-screen world helped her showcase her abilities more efficiently, Indira asserted that she also got enough respect there. The actor, nonetheless, added, “Yes, I have heard that a lot of things happen in the TV industry as well. But I think at that time, it was something we all had to face.”
Indira Krishnan is known for her performances in television shows like Krishnaben Khakhrawala, Krishnadasi, Manzilein Apani Apani, Kabhi Aaye Na Judaai, Waaris, Rahe Tera Aashirwaad, Rehna Hai Teri Palkon Ki Chhaon Mein, Tum Aise Hi Rehna and Firangi Bahu. She also appeared in movies like Aaj Ka Ravan, Tere Naam, Chatur Singh Two Star, Holiday: A Soldier Is Never Off Duty, Hey Bro and Animal.
Click here to follow Screen Digital on YouTube and stay updated with the latest from the world of cinema.
