Actress Fatima Sana Shaikh, known for her roles in films like "Dangal" and "Ludo," recently shared her experiences with the casting couch in the film industry, shedding light on the challenges faced by aspiring actors.
In an interview, Fatima recounted an uncomfortable encounter with a casting agent for a Southern film who repeatedly made suggestive remarks, implying she needed to be "ready to do everything" to secure the role. She also described an unsettling experience in Hyderabad where producers subtly hinted at the need to engage in compromising activities to get cast in films.
Fatima further revealed how some casting directors in Mumbai exploit newcomers by demanding a share of their earnings in exchange for providing "references" and opportunities.
These revelations highlight the dark side of the film industry and the exploitative practices that persist despite growing awareness and conversations around the issue. Fatima's courage in speaking out about her experiences sheds light on the challenges faced by many aspiring actors and underscores the need for greater accountability and transparency in the industry.
Fatima, who began her career as a child artist, has appeared in several notable films, including "Thugs of Hindostan" and "Sam Bahadur." She is currently working on Anurag Basu's upcoming multi-starrer "Metro... In Dino."