'I was the only woman on set': Radhika Apte

Entertainment Dec 20, 2025

Radhika Apte recently talked about her early days in South Indian cinema, which she entered mainly for financial reasons.
She shared how tough it was being the only woman on set and being told to change her appearance with extra padding.
As she put it, "I said, 'How much more padding?'. How much rounder would you make somebody?"—highlighting how little say women had back then.

From tough beginnings to streaming success

Even with those challenges, Apte has built a strong career and is now a familiar face in Indian cinema.
Her latest film, Saali Mohabbat (directed by Tisca Chopra and co-starring Divyendu), is streaming on ZEE5.
Her journey from awkward sets to lead roles really shows her resilience and talent.