The last couple of days have brought to the fore a lot of debate on sexual harassment in the entertainment industry – both in Hollywood and Bollywood. After victims have been coming forth and talking about being violated post the Harvey Weinstein case, we couldn’t help but wonder what the situation is like in Bollywood. Surely, it exists here too but will take eons before someone speaks up, thanks to the patriarchal and sexist nature of the industry.
Vidya Balan has in the past spoken about how the casting couch exists, and now, Radhika Apte, who is known for her bold and confident choices, has come forth to talk about sexual abuse and harassment. Here are some excerpts from her interview with PTI.
About how it happens with men too…
I am specifically talking about the industry, I know a lot of men who have gone through this as well. It’s high time this comes out.
About how people may want to speak up but won’t…
People who exploit their power and abuse others need to be revealed. On the other hand, people are ambitious and are ready to do what is required. It needs to work from both the sides. The fear also comes from ‘Who is going to believe me? The other person has so much power, my complain will go unnoticed, that’ll ruin my career.’
On what could help change this…
You need to learn to say no and need to recognise when you’re being exploited. You will get your due, according to your talent. at some time. Some people come here running away from home, they have nothing to fall back on. A better organisation, rules and transparency will help a lot.Bollywood definitely has a long way to go in creating a better structure but one can only hope this sorry state of affairs changes asap.