Megastar Chiranjeevi has weighed in on one of the most sensitive and debated topics in the film industry — the casting couch. Speaking at a public event in Hyderabad on January 25, the veteran actor firmly stated that Tollywood remains a healthy and professional space to work in, dismissing claims of a systemic casting couch culture.
Chiranjeevi, who was last seen in the Sankranthi blockbuster Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu, shared his perspective while addressing the audience, drawing from his decades-long experience in the Telugu film industry.
“The Industry Reflects the Individual”
Addressing the issue directly, Chiranjeevi said that cinema, like any other profession, mirrors the people working within it. According to him, it would be unfair to label the entire industry based on isolated incidents.
“There is no casting couch culture as such,” he said, adding that uncomfortable situations can arise in any field. He stressed that personal boundaries, clarity, and commitment to one’s work play a major role in preventing exploitation. In his words, the industry acts like a mirror — it reflects the values and conduct of those who are part of it.
The actor also emphasised that Tollywood offers genuine opportunities to talent that is focused and disciplined, and that branding the industry as inherently unsafe does a disservice to thousands of professionals who work ethically.
A View That Sparks Debate
While Chiranjeevi’s remarks reflect his belief in personal agency and professional discipline, they arrive at a time when several actors have spoken openly about unsettling casting experiences.
Saiyami Kher had earlier revealed that she faced an uncomfortable situation early in her career when a female casting agent allegedly asked her to “compromise” for work in the Telugu film industry. Saiyami, who was around 19 or 20 at the time, said she chose to handle the moment calmly and refused to be intimidated.
Similarly, Fatima Sana Shaikh has spoken about an uneasy interaction during the casting process for a southern project. She recalled receiving suggestive calls from a casting agent and intentionally responding innocently to understand the intent — an experience she said left a lasting impression.
Two Realities, One Conversation
Chiranjeevi’s comments highlight the perspective of a veteran who believes strong work ethics can shield artistes from exploitation. At the same time, the accounts shared by younger actors underline how vulnerable newcomers can be, especially when power dynamics are involved.
The contrasting viewpoints make it clear that the casting couch conversation isn’t black and white. While the industry may not be uniformly problematic, individual experiences vary — and those experiences deserve to be acknowledged with sensitivity.
Final Words
Chiranjeevi’s statement has reignited an important discussion about responsibility, power, and safety in cinema. His faith in Tollywood as a positive workspace stands firm, but the voices of actors who’ve faced uncomfortable situations remind us that the conversation is far from over — and perhaps needs more listening than defending.
