Singer and voice artist Chinmayi Sripaada has delivered a powerful response to veteran Telugu actor Chiranjeevi's recent comments dismissing the existence of casting couch culture in the film industry. The Megastar had asserted that there is no systemic casting couch problem and suggested it depends on individual circumstances. However, Chinmayi's detailed social media posts present a starkly different reality, drawing from both personal experience and numerous accounts from other women.
Chinmayi's Direct Rejection of Chiranjeevi's Statement
Taking to her X (formerly Twitter) handle, Chinmayi Sripaada explicitly rejected Chiranjeevi's characterization of the industry. She wrote with conviction, "Casting couch is rampant, women are refused roles if they don't offer 'full commitment' - a word that means completely different in the film industry." She elaborated that many aspiring actresses and professionals face immense pressure from the moment they enter the cinematic world, with opportunities often contingent on compromising personal boundaries.
Personal Trauma and Harrowing Accounts
In her emotionally charged posts, Chinmayi revealed her own traumatic experience with lyricist Vairamuthu, stating clearly, "I didn't get molested by Vairamuthu because I was asking for it." She emphasized that she was barely out of her teens when the incident occurred, and despite her mother being in the same building, the abuse still took place. This personal revelation underscores the vulnerability many young women face, even in seemingly secure environments.
Beyond her own story, Chinmayi shared disturbing accounts from other women, including one who traveled from abroad for work only to be assaulted. She described another incident where a woman had to lock herself in a studio to escape potential assault. These narratives collectively paint a picture of an industry where predatory behavior persists, often hidden behind professional facades.
The Misuse of Language and Power Dynamics
Chinmayi specifically addressed how language is weaponized within the industry. She warned that terms like "commitment" are frequently misused by men in positions of power to imply sexual compliance rather than professional dedication. "If you come from an English educated background and believe 'commitment' means 'professionalism', showing up to work and being... you're mistaken," she explained, highlighting how linguistic manipulation facilitates exploitation.
She pointed directly to the core issue: "Men believing they are OWED sex in return for giving work are the problem. End." This blunt statement challenges the entitlement that perpetuates casting couch culture, shifting blame from victims to perpetrators.
Generational Perspectives and Industry Evolution
While acknowledging Chiranjeevi's legendary status, Chinmayi contextualized his comments within generational differences. She noted, "Legendary Chiranjeevi garu comes from a generation where they all were friends or even family friends with their female co-artists, mutually respected each other, worked with legends, and they are all legends themselves." This observation suggests that his experience may not reflect the current realities faced by many women entering the industry today, where professional relationships have evolved and, in some cases, deteriorated into exploitative dynamics.
Chinmayi's revelations come at a time when conversations about workplace safety and gender equality in entertainment are gaining momentum globally. Her courage in speaking out adds significant weight to ongoing discussions about systemic reform and accountability within Indian cinema.
Disclaimer: If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, assault, or abuse, please seek immediate help. Reach out to a mental health specialist, NGO, or trusted individual. Several helplines are available to offer assistance.
