Manya Anand Exposes Casting Couch Practices in Tamil Film Industry

Post by : Mina Rahman

Tamil television star Manya Anand has come forward with serious allegations regarding her experiences in the film sector, specifically accusing Sreyas, Dhanush’s manager, of attempting to exploit her through casting couch practices. During a revealing interview, she recounted that Sreyas reached out about a potential film role and quickly veered into making inappropriate suggestions.

Manya stated that Sreyas hinted at a quid pro quo with the words, “There is commitment (adjustment),” implying that she might need to offer something beyond professional interaction to secure the role. She challenged him directly, asking, “What commitment? Why should I give commitment?” making it clear she would not yield to such unethical advances.

Even after her firm rejection, Manya claimed that Sreyas continued to press the issue, allegedly saying, “You will not comply even if it’s Dhanush sir?” He reportedly persisted in reaching out to her. Manya also indicated that he forwarded her the location of Dhanush’s production house, Wunderbar Films, along with the script, which she declined to read, having no desire to engage with the film.

Highlighting a broader concern, Manya remarked, “We’re artists. We are doing some other work. You take work from us but don’t expect something else in return. If we comply with your demands, then we’d be labeled differently. I think it would be beneficial for people to recognize this pattern and address it.”

Worsening the situation, she disclosed that another manager had approached her with a similarly inappropriate request for the same project, indicating a troubling pattern within the industry. Manya stressed the importance that performers should never be coerced or pressured in professional contexts.

About Manya Anand
Manya Anand is widely recognized for her role in the Tamil television serial Vanathai Pola. Leveraging her platform, she has been vocal about the misconduct rampant in the industry, shedding light on the difficulties faced by emerging actors, particularly women, as they navigate opportunities. Through sharing her story, Manya aims to raise awareness about exploitation in the Tamil entertainment realm and advocate for substantial change.