Casting couch and harassment in the film and entertainment industry have long been spoken about, with many actors now courageously sharing their personal stories. Acclaimed actress Amruta Subhash recently opened up about her own painful experiences, shedding light on the challenges faced by women in the industry.
A Shocking Incident During Theatre Days
In a recent interview with Zoom, Amruta recalled an unsettling incident from her early theatre days. She recounted, “I was climbing the stairs, and maybe my top had lifted slightly something I didn’t even notice. Suddenly, I felt a hand near my waist.” Turning around, she discovered it was a well-known drama producer. Confronting him immediately, she asked, “What did you just do? What was this?”
Amruta said the producer tried to brush it off, claiming nothing had happened. But she stood her ground, saying, “Even if my top lifted, that doesn’t give anyone the right to touch me. How can you behave like this?” Her bold stand shocked those present, as the man involved was a prominent name. People warned her it could ruin her career, but Amruta replied firmly, “Let whatever happen. No one can touch me without my permission.”
Another Encounter with Harassment
She also shared another troubling experience involving a senior individual who persistently invited her for late-night drinks. After repeatedly dodging his advances, she finally agreed strategically keeping the door open when she arrived at his room. “I told him, ‘Sir, you are of my father’s age. How can you talk to me like this?’”
Her confrontation left the man speechless. “People were watching, and I wanted them to. I was tired of feeling uncomfortable every day. I said clearly don’t ever do this again.”
Amruta’s powerful testimony stands as a reminder of the silent struggles many face, and the strength it takes to speak up.
