Chinmayi Disagrees with Chiranjeevi on ‘Casting Couch’

Megastar Chiranjeevi’s recent comments on the casting couch issue have triggered a strong debate within the film industry. His statement that “casting couch does not exist if women remain strict and professional” drew mixed reactions. While some supported his view, many questioned how such a serious issue could be dismissed so easily.

Singer and dubbing artist Chinmayi, who has been vocal about the casting couch for years, responded firmly to Chiranjeevi’s remarks. She made it clear that casting couch is very much a reality in the film industry and not an exaggerated claim. According to her, the problem has existed for a long time and has now grown into a serious issue that cannot be ignored.

Chinmayi acknowledged that senior artists from Chiranjeevi’s generation may have maintained respectful and dignified relationships with women. However, she stressed that the present situation in the industry is very different. She stated that power imbalance has made casting couch a widespread and dangerous practice, especially for newcomers and women with limited support.

She also questioned how some senior women from the industry have criticised the Me Too movement, calling it strange that women themselves discourage others from speaking up. Chinmayi pointed out that certain industry terms carry hidden meanings and that women are often pressured under the guise of professional commitment.

Sharing disturbing experiences she is aware of, Chinmayi said there have been instances where women had to lock themselves inside rooms to escape sexual assault attempts. She also mentioned cases where male artists behaved inappropriately, sent explicit messages, and demanded sexual favours in return for opportunities.

Referring to her own experience, Chinmayi reiterated that she was harassed by a senior composer even when her mother was present. She made it clear that the incident was not consensual and that she had respected him as a mentor.

According to her, many men in the industry strongly believe that providing work to women automatically entitles them to sexual access, which she described as a deeply rooted and dangerous mindset.