In a shocking revelation on Bigg Boss Tamil 7, veteran actress Vichithra opened up about a traumatic casting couch experience that led her to quit the film industry two decades ago. The courageous disclosure has sparked conversations about the prevalent issue of exploitation and harassment within the film fraternity.
Vichithra, who entered the entertainment world in 1991 and has worked across Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada films, has been a champion member of the well-known unscripted TV drama Bigg Boss Tamil hosted by Kamal Haasan.
During a new episode circulated on November 21, competitors were provoked to share critical defining moments in their lives. Vichithra made the move to reveal insight into the dark part of her career.
The occurrence traces all the way back to 2000 when she was working on a Telugu film, shot in Kerala's Malampuzha. Hesitant to reveal specific details, Vichithra recounted how she faced an appalling casting couch experience that left an indelible mark on her life. Notwithstanding the seriousness of the circumstances, she valiantly decided to stand up against the maltreatment.
We were set up in a 3-star inn she said where my husband was the head supervisor. There was a party where I met the legend (exceptionally renowned). He never asked my name however requested that I come to his room. It was an immense shock for me. I really failed to see what sort of a motion it was," she reviewed. The entertainer further itemized the upsetting occasions, including persistent harassment and inappropriate behavior from the men working on the film.
Having experienced something she described as her "worst-ever casting couch experience," Vichithra decided to file a complaint with the union. Unfortunately, she encountered a lack of support and action, both from the union and the legal system. "I complained to the union, and they asked me to come back. No one came for me. It was an incident that was much talked-about in the newspapers," she said, expressing her disappointment with the system.
The actress also revealed that she faced physical abuse on another occasion, filing a case against stunt director in 2012. Despite the challenges and setbacks, Vichithra's resilient spirit prevailed. She credited her husband, who stood by her side, for providing the support and strength she needed during those trying times.
Vichithra's revelation has prompted discussions and support from fans, with speculation arising about the film and hero involved. Fans on social media platforms, particularly Twitter, have speculated that the incident occurred during the shooting of the 2001 Telugu film "Bhalevadivi Basu," featuring the renowned actor Nandamuri Balakrishna, commonly known as Balayya.
Yet again the entertainer's bold choice to share her awful encounters has brought the issue of projecting casting couch and exploitation in the film industry to the forefront. As discussions continue, Vichithra's story serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by individuals within the entertainment business and the need for a safer and more supportive environment.