Popular vocalist and voiceover artist, Chinmayi Sripaada has expressed her strong disapproval following remarks made by seasoned actor Chiranjeevi, who
at the success gathering of Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu asserted that the casting couch is a myth and characterized the industry as a reflection of individual conduct. Chinmayi highlighted the pervasive harassment that women endure in the film sector, shedding light on various forms of abuse. She provided instances of both aspiring and established artists being coerced into sexual favors, verbally abused, or targeted by men, emphasizing how professional dedication is frequently misconstrued as personal 'adjustment'. Chinmayi also shared her own experiences of harassment, specifically calling out lyricist Vairamuthu.
Following Chiranjeevi’s Comments on the Casting Couch, Chinmayi Sripaada Responds to Vairamuthu
Chinmayi Sripaada has expressed her thoughts on the statements made by veteran actor Chiranjeevi regarding the reality of the casting couch in the industry. At a film event, Chiranjeevi implied that the casting couch is not a real phenomenon, suggesting that such uncomfortable situations are more about personal attitudes than systemic issues. Chinmayi’s reply contested this perspective, bringing attention to the struggles many women face while navigating the complexities of the film industry. In her post on X, Chinmayi emphasized the disparity between perception and reality, asserting that sexual harassment in the film industry is real and often masked under professional jargon. Numerous women are pressured into providing “commitment” beyond their professional duties to secure roles, which translates into requests for sexual favors. She pointed out that women from professional or English-educated backgrounds, who may view commitment as a sign of dedication to their work frequently encounter shocking breaches of consent. From her observations, men in positions of power believe they are entitled to sexual favors this mindset leads to harassment in exchange for career advancement.
She recounted several incidents to illustrate the issue, including instances of women being verbally attacked or threatened when they resisted unwelcome advances. One example described a female musician being harassed in a recording studio and needing to lock herself away until a senior colleague stepped in. Other real incident involved repeat offenders who exploited their influence over young women, sending inappropriate messages or making unsolicited sexual propositions.
Chinmayi also discussed the MeToo movement, discussing the challenges previous generations faced in understanding or accepting women's testimonies of sexual abuse. She reflected on how even prominent figures in the industry, sometimes hailed as feminists, have dismissed or criticized women who came forward, framing their experiences as dishonorable to their families or partners.
Chinmayi Sripaada Calls Out Vairamuthu
The singer shared her personal account of molestation, asserting that harassment is never the fault of the victim. She recounted an experience involving a senior lyricist, Vairamuthu, revealing that the presence of a parent or mentor does not shield one from abuse when entitlement is at play.
In 2018, Chinmayi Sripaada publicly identified veteran Tamil lyricist Vairamuthu as the individual who had sexually harassed her, claiming that he demanded her “cooperation” back in 2005. These disclosures emerged as she spearheaded the #MeToo movement in Tamil cinema, bringing issues of abuse to the forefront. While Vairamuthu denied the allegations, Chinmayi has reportedly encountered professional repercussions, including a ban from the Tamil film industry.
