The tragic death of 22-year-old television actress Sanchita Ugale has sent shockwaves across the entertainment industry. It has also sparked a massive debate about mental health, workplace pressure and the challenges faced by young actors in the television sector.
Sanchita, known for her work in shows such as Kumkum Bhagya, Saajan Ghar, Dilwali Dulha Le Jayegi and films including Chhaava, was found dead at her residence in Nalasopara, Maharashtra, on June 14. Police have registered an Accidental Death Report (ADR) and stated that the investigation is ongoing, with authorities examining all possible angles. However, the late actress’ family and friends have come out sharing different narratives and levelling several allegations.
Family Alleges Work Pressure
Sanchita’s father,
Machhindra Ugale, has made some serious allegations. He recently claimed that his daughter was under immense pressure and was being mentally harassed. He said the family had noticed that Sanchita often appeared disturbed and demanded a thorough investigation, stating that the truth behind his daughter’s distress should come to light.
“People from the industry were putting pressure on her. She was very upset at home. She looked good but was feeling very suffocated inside. My daughter has committed suicide under the pressure of people from the industry,” he said.
‘Casting People Harassed Her’: Brother
Late actress’ cousin Akash Ugale has also claimed that she was being targeted within the entertainment industry. He also drew parallels with the late actor Sushant Singh Rajput case, demanding a proper investigation.
“The Instagram ID I just showed you uploaded this reel yesterday, and it has a video of Sushant Singh Rajput with my sister’s profile picture used. I spoke to some of her friends and found out that some casting people were harassing her. She was being mentally harassed. She was upset,” he said while speaking to media.
Co-Star Threatened Sanchita?
Several of Sanchita’s friends and colleagues have also come forward with claims that have intensified public scrutiny. Actress Indraxi Kanjilal alleged that Sanchita had faced mental harassment during the shooting of Saajan Ghar. She accused co-actor Ujjwal Sharma of troubling the actress and claimed that there were disputes involving money and workplace issues.
“Ujjwal had apparently borrowed money from Sanchita and later behaved rudely with her. When she asked him to return the money, he lashed out, humiliated her, and even threatened to hit her. I have screenshots of their chats where he used inappropriate language and insulted her,” Indraxi told TellyChakkar.
Industry Body Demands Probe
The incident has prompted intervention from industry organisations as well. The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has called for a transparent and comprehensive investigation into Sanchita’s death. The organisation has urged Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to ensure a thorough probe and has also sought greater attention to mental health and workplace safety within the entertainment industry.
