Fatima Sana Shaikh's Shocking Comments on Casting Couch in South India

Bollywood actress Fatima Sana Shaikh, widely recognized for her breakout performance in the blockbuster Dangal alongside Aamir Khan, has recently made headlines with her candid revelations about the casting couch in the film industry. Speaking in a recent interview, the actress shared her personal experiences, including shocking encounters early in her career and insights about the South Indian film industry.
Fatima recalled a troubling incident from the initial days of her career when she attended an audition for a film. "During an audition, a director asked me if I was ready to do anything for the role. I replied that I was willing to work hard and do whatever was required for the character. But he kept repeating the same question. I understood his intentions but acted as though I didn’t," she revealed, speaking about her distressing experience.
In her remarks, Fatima also shed light on the casting practices prevalent in South Indian cinema. She recounted an incident from her visit to Hyderabad when she sought opportunities in the South Indian film industry. "Producers here are very open about discussing the casting couch. While they may not say things directly, it becomes evident through their words or behavior. For instance, I was told, 'You need to meet certain people,' and it was clear what they meant," she said, highlighting the uncomfortable realities she faced.
Fatima’s comments have since gone viral on social media, sparking widespread discussions about the darker side of the entertainment industry.
Apart from her debut in Dangal, Fatima Sana Shaikh has appeared in several notable films such as Thugs of Hindostan, Ludo, Ajeeb Daastaans, Thar, and the upcoming Sam Bahadur. Interestingly, her acting journey began as a child artist in Kamal Haasan's Hindi film Chachi 420, showcasing her talent from a young age.