Megastar Chiranjeevi recently remarked that there is no casting couch culture in the Telugu film industry, stating that women can work freely without fear.
He cited examples such as his daughter Sushmita’s rise as a producer and the success of Ashwini Dutt’s daughters, suggesting that the industry offers a safe and fair working environment.
However, his comments triggered heavy trolling on social media.
Many felt that highlighting star daughters and industry insiders overlooked the struggles of women who enter cinema without any film background and face a very different reality.
Adding to the ongoing debate, actress Ester Noronha has now spoken candidly about the casting couch issue. Her remarks echo Chiranjeevi’s views, albeit with a sharp distinction.
Esther said that most new-age filmmakers; particularly directors and producers from the younger generation; are professional and fair, and do not indulge in casting couch practices.
However, she pointed a finger at filmmakers from the older generation, whom she bluntly referred to as “uncles.”
According to Esther, it is these “uncles” who often ask for “commitment” from aspiring actresses; a term widely understood as a euphemism for sexual favors.
She added that many people wrongly assume she too has faced or given in to such demands, without knowing who she truly is or what she stands for.
