'Pay to live together': Renuka Shahane recalls producer's shocking offer
What's the story
Veteran actor Renuka Shahane, known for her roles in Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!, Surabhi, and other notable film and television projects, recently opened up about a disturbing incident from her early career. In a Zoom interview, she revealed that a producer once made an inappropriate proposal under the pretext of offering her professional work. He offered her a stipend for becoming the brand ambassador of his company, but the catch was that she had to live with him.
Uncomfortable encounter
'He told me that he is married, but...'
Shahane recalled the incident, saying in Hindi, "A producer came to my home and made a proposition. He told me that he is married, but he asked me to become the brand ambassador of a saree company and told me that he will give me a stipend every month for living together with him." "My mom and I were aghast." The actor immediately rejected the proposal and distanced herself from the campaign.
Industry challenges
Such incidents have long-lasting effects on women in industry
Shahane further explained that such incidents often have repercussions for women. "Either you get thrown out (of the project) or they come together and trouble you even more. You don't get paid if you leave." "It's a club that comes together and victimizes the victim even more." She also spoke about the power dynamics and fear of financial loss that keep many women silent in the industry.
Industry reflection
#MeToo accused men returning to work is concerning
Shahane also reflected on the diminishing impact of the #MeToo movement, noting that many accused individuals have returned to work despite serious allegations. "The problem is that after the MeToo movement, the accused, after 5-6 years, are doing very good work after forgetting everything." "And if you accuse someone and there is no back-up like a police case then people will confront you for not proving the allegation," she said.
Co-star's caution
Shahane revealed Raveena Tandon's experiences in Bollywood
Shahane also shared an example involving Bollywood actor Raveena Tandon, who had to be extremely cautious during her peak years in the industry. "Raveena was a big heroine and she came from the industry, but she had told me that during outdoor shoots, we would change rooms every day so that nobody should know which room we are staying in." "So they don't come and create problems," Shahane recalled.