Chiranjeevi Casting Couch Remark: When His Costars Nayanthara, Anushka Shetty Spoke About Its Reality

The

casting couch debate in the Telugu film industry sparked new debate after Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu star Chiranjeevi spoke about the issue during the success meet of his film. At the event Chiranjeevi stated that there is no formal casting couch culture and that experiences depend on individual attitude and behaviour, he spoke against generalizing the industry based on a few incidents. His remarks drew immediate reactions on social media, with many questioning his perspective. Interestingly, his co-stars, actors Nayanthara and Anushka Shetty have openly spoken about the existence of casting couch practices. Read on to know more.

Chiranjeevi Denies Casting Couch Existence In Tollywood

Speaking at the success meet of Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu in Hyderabad on January 25, Chiranjeevi addressed the controversy, stating that “there is no casting couch culture as such, it depends on the individual.” He added that cinema, like any other profession, is built by personal behavior and that difficult situations can arise in any profession. According to Chiranjeevi, giving off clear boundaries and having a direct approach is important.

Chiranjeevi added that the film industry reflects individual behavior and revealed that labeling the entire Telugu film industry as systematically problematic would be unfair.

His remarks sparked strong reactions on social media, with some supporting his view on personal responsibility, while many others called him out for not addressing the broader issue.

What Did Nayanthara and Anushka Shetty Say About Casting Couch Issue

In the past many leading actresses have openly acknowledged the existence of casting couch practices. During a promotional event for her film Nishabdham, Anushka Shetty allegedly admitted that the casting couch exists in Telugu cinema but emphasized how her direct and straightforward personality prevented her from being exploited. Anushka Shetty reportedly stated that she has always been straightforward and frank, stating that actors must choose between taking easier paths with less fame or pursuing the harder route to build a long-lasting career. Her remarks speak about self-awareness and developing the confidence to say no in the industry.

Similarly, Nayanthara has spoken in the past about challenges faced by her. During a media interaction, Nayanthara revealed that she had been asked for certain “favours” in exchange for an important film role. She firmly rejected the offer.Chiranjeevi’s statements show the ongoing conflict between individual responsibility and the need for the industry to be accountable.