Actress Chandini Chowdary’s recent revelations have once again brought the issue of the casting couch in Tollywood into the spotlight. Speaking on Chai Bisket’s The Audition Show, Chandini recalled a disturbing incident from the early days of her career. She alleged that a producer, who initially approached her with an offer to become the brand ambassador for a leading jewelry brand during the shooting of Brahmotsavam in 2015, later demanded sexual favors in exchange for the opportunity.
According to Chandini, after first meeting her in the presence of her mother, the man later called her privately, questioned her looks and complexion, and indirectly asked for a “commitment.” When she refused, she claims he even called her mother and behaved inappropriately. Her mother reportedly warned him that they would approach the police if he contacted them again.
Chandini Chowdary further alleged that the producer then spread negative stories about her within the industry, branding her as arrogant and difficult to work with. She believes that image continues to affect her career even today.
She also recalled meeting the same producer during the promotions of Gaami, Evam, and Music Shop Murthy in 2024. According to Chandini, she confronted him directly by asking, “You’re the one who asked me to sleep with you back then, right?” She says the producer was left speechless.
Her comments come just a day after a social media influencer alleged that “commitment” remains an unofficial requirement for many aspiring actresses. Every few months, another actress, influencer, or aspiring artist shares a similar story. The names change, but the allegations remain strikingly similar.
Tollywood today celebrates its pan-India success, global recognition, and Rs. 500-1000 crore blockbusters. But the industry also has a responsibility to ensure that aspiring actors, especially women, believe talent, not exploitation, is the path to success.
Until stories like Chandini Chowdary’s stop surfacing, one uncomfortable question will continue to haunt the industry: Is the casting couch really disappearing, or is it simply changing faces?
