Hyderabad: Tollywood megastar Chiranjeevi has weighed in on the long-running casting couch debate, offering a firm defence of the Telugu film industry and rejecting the notion that exploitation is a systemic issue within it. Speaking at the Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu event on January 25, the veteran actor drew from his decades-long career to argue that Tollywood is largely a professional space where opportunities are driven by merit, discipline and clarity of purpose rather than coercion.

Addressing the sensitive topic head-on, Chiranjeevi stated that individuals who enter the industry with focus and self-awareness can find work without compromising their dignity. “There is no casting couch culture as such. It depends on the individual,” he said, a remark that has since sparked widespread discussion across social media and film circles.

‘Every profession has its challenges’

Chiranjeevi elaborated that uncomfortable or unethical situations are not unique to cinema and can exist in any field. According to him, the film industry is often unfairly singled out and portrayed in a negative light based on isolated incidents rather than its broader working culture.

He emphasised the importance of personal boundaries and self-respect, suggesting that individuals who are clear about their values are less likely to be exploited. “The industry is like a mirror — it reflects who you are,” Chiranjeevi remarked, indicating that integrity and intent play a crucial role in shaping one’s experiences.

The actor also cautioned against generalising the actions of a few as representative of an entire industry. He argued that such narratives not only damage the reputation of cinema but also overshadow the efforts of thousands of professionals who work ethically behind the scenes.

Context of ongoing casting couch discussions

Chiranjeevi’s comments come at a time when the casting couch debate has once again gained momentum, fuelled by personal accounts from actors who have spoken about uncomfortable experiences early in their careers. These stories have highlighted concerns around power imbalance, vulnerability of newcomers and the lack of formal safeguards in certain situations.

Actress Saiyami Kher previously revealed that she encountered an unsettling situation during her initial years in the Telugu film industry. She claimed that a female casting agent allegedly asked her to “compromise” in exchange for a role. Saiyami said she was around 19 or 20 at the time and chose to respond confidently, refusing to be intimidated or pressured.

Similarly, actor Fatima Sana Shaikh recently recounted an awkward casting call experience to a southern film project. She described receiving repeated and suggestive remarks from a casting agent during a phone conversation, which left her uncomfortable. Fatima explained that she responded deliberately in an innocent manner to gauge the intent behind the remarks, underscoring how vulnerable newcomers can feel while navigating auditions and early opportunities.

Divided reactions to Chiranjeevi’s remarks

Chiranjeevi’s statement has triggered mixed reactions online. Supporters have praised him for defending Tollywood’s reputation and for highlighting personal agency in professional spaces. Many fans and industry insiders echoed his view that the Telugu film industry has provided opportunities to countless actors, technicians and newcomers based on talent and hard work.

On the other hand, critics argue that focusing solely on individual responsibility risks downplaying genuine experiences of exploitation. They contend that acknowledging systemic flaws does not necessarily tarnish the industry’s image but can instead pave the way for better safeguards, transparency and accountability.

Some voices online have also pointed out that power dynamics often place aspiring actors in difficult positions, making it unrealistic to expect every newcomer to navigate such situations with confidence and clarity. They argue that senior figures in the industry have a responsibility to acknowledge these vulnerabilities alongside defending professionalism.

Industry accountability and evolving conversations

The casting couch debate has long cast a shadow over film industries across India, prompting difficult conversations about workplace ethics, consent and power imbalance. Over the years, several industry bodies have taken steps towards creating safer working environments, including the formation of internal complaints committees and codes of conduct, though their effectiveness continues to be debated.

Chiranjeevi’s remarks reflect a perspective shared by many senior actors who believe that cinema should not be judged solely through the lens of controversy. At the same time, younger voices and advocacy groups stress the need for institutional mechanisms that protect artists, especially those at the start of their careers.

Conclusion

As conversations around safety, ethics and accountability in entertainment continue to evolve, Chiranjeevi’s comments have once again brought the spotlight on how the industry views responsibility and professionalism. While his defence of Tollywood has found support, the contrasting experiences shared by actors underline the complexity of the issue. The ongoing debate suggests that meaningful progress may lie in balancing individual agency with stronger systems that ensure dignity and safety for all who aspire to work in cinema.