MUMBAI: Rakhi Sawant has never been one to shy away from being bold and saying what needs to be said. Now, the Bollywood diva has come out with her own opinion regarding the “casting-couch” controversy.
Talking about the time when she herself first entered the industry, Rakhi said, “When I was a struggler, yes I did face the casting couch. But it wasn’t as if every producer or director I approached was guilty. As in every walk of life, there is sexual corruption in the film industry also. As far as I was concerned, this was just in the beginning. But I had talent and I didn’t have to give in. I learnt to say no. And I used my talent as an artiste to make my way through life. I suggest all strugglers to have patience and not surrender to the temptation of shortcuts.”
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The 39 year old actress says she completely supports Saroj Khan’s statements about the lack of coercion when it comes to the exchange of sexual favours.
“Nobody rapes anyone in this film industry. It’s all consensual and voluntary. In this, I fully support Sarojji. At least she has spoken her mind and let the world know the truth. People in Bollywood don’t speak out the truth about the casting couch although it is happening right here in front of their eyes. They feel they are making their way up why should they bother with what’s happening around them? I really admire Sarojji for letting the world know the reality that they have to face every day. Sarojji has seen what goes here. I totally agree with her.”
Rakhi revealed that the demand and supply of sexual favours are and have always been very high in the industry.
“Young girls are willing to make any compromise to get going in their career. A lot of girls come in the film industry to become heroines but become something else… you understand what I am saying? Call it destiny or what you will.”
“Have faith in your talent. Have patience. Don’t give in to shortcuts. I’ve seen so many girls throw themselves at producers. This is not good. I don’t want to take any names. It shouldn’t be so. Salman Khan and Priyanka Chopra are superstars because of their hard work and not for any other reason. The ones who take the shortcut end up on a different track altogether. Don’t do this to yourself. And don’t blame producers for taking what you have to offer.”
She even pointed out that although new women and girls are at risk, even men are not entirely safe.
“I keep telling the strugglers not to give in. I don’t want to denigrate Bollywood. But because Saroj-ji has raised her voice I am supporting her.”
