Junior Artist Sandhya Alleges Casting Couch Harassment By Malayalam Casting Director Vichu: Read Story HERE

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After the Hema Committee Report took centre stage, many new complaints are coming out alleging harassment, abuse, and casting couch in the Malayalam film industry, which is soaring to benchmark heights with its content-driven realistic films of late. The HCR (Hema Committee Report) fluttered bewilderment and shock among those who are working in the industry as well as the public.

Many senior filmmakers and actors have condemned and reacted to the claims that were thoroughly surprising to them. The bigwigs of the Malayalam industry opined that their work environment is sound and secure. Many budding filmmakers and newcomers might take an opportunity to exploit women by taking advantage, they said.

Meanwhile, a junior artist named Sandhya is the latest to come up with her share of bitter experiences. She alleged casting couch by casting director Vichu. In a report on Asianet News, it is mentioned that Sandhya was denied opportunities and growth in the industry because she refused to give in to the casting couch demands.

Sandhya was quoted saying, "Vichu told me that if I had not accepted his sexual interests, I wouldn't be able to get an offer in the film. He was direct with his demands. He has acted in a movie. It was a one day shoot. No problem encountered in location. But when people in the film industry call, the first thing they ask is whether you are available. It asks if you are married, are you ready to make a bold scene, expose, are you ready to compromise. But if you say no, then you will lose the opportunity. And if they call, they will not pick up. Sandhya said that production executives and managers are the ones she has spoken to the most.

I had spoken to Vichu, the casting director, months ago. During the first chat you will be asked what your interest is. If you have an opinion then say you stay at home if you have an opinion. This is a common problem. I have many friends in this field. They all have these experiences. Not only me, many people have the same experience. There is no safe here. Safety is a question if you go without someone. Earlier, no one would believe me. Sandhya also says that she understands that there is a situation to speak based on the report of the Hema committee, she added. (As told to Asianet).