Telugu actress Sri Reddy, who recently made the headlines after she stripped in front of Hyderabad’s Telugu Chamber of Commerce building, the headquarters of the Movie Artistes’ Association (MAA), to protest against the practice of casting couch in the Telugu film industry, has now found support among women’s rights activists.
According to News18, many of these activists have taken cognisance of Sri Reddy’s claims about casting couch in the industry and are demanding stringent measures from the industry.
Sri Reddy has been vocal about casting couch in the Telugu movie industry and has accused producers and directors of sexual misconduct. She has also been denied a membership to the Movie Artistes Association (MAA) despite having acted in three films, and with the association further preventing any actors from working with her.
The activists in Hyderabad are now emphasising on how people from the industry promote rape culture through silence.
Recommended
“First time we are seeing such a protest. It has moved a lot of people. Big heroes who are keeping quiet on the issue show that they are encouraging rape culture. If you don’t speak out, don’t make changes, it will give a message that the industry wants casting couch. The industry is only waiting and hoping that the phase will pass. But this time people are watching and industry will be judged by its action,” says Tejaswini from ‘Hyderabad For Feminism’ to News18.
A few days back, Rakul Preet at an event held by the Movie Artists Association said that she never had to face issues as far as casting couch is concerned. She further said that in the four to five years that she has worked in the Telugu film industry, “not a single person has tried to act funny” with her.
Reacting to her comments, Telugu actresses Madhavi Latha and Sri Reddy accused Rakul of lying. Madhavi Latha said that instead of denying the issue, Rakul should create awareness. She also said that her denial probably stems from fear of losing out on opportunities.
Recently, tennis player Jwala Gutta posted on Instagram stating: “There is a lot of crime against women in general in our society… but if you haven’t experienced it.. do we deny it?? Do we only speak when we experience something like that? Don’t we belong to this society where we are a minority gender?? Don’t you think you being in a powerful position can make a change for women who r being harassed at work place?”
Feature Image: The Indian Express