IFFI 2024: Imtiaz Ali Opens Up on Casting Couch, “Saying No Is Key to Respect”
At IFFI 2024, director Imtiaz Ali addressed the casting couch issue, emphasizing, “Saying no is key to earning respect and building a successful career in films.”
The casting couch, a troubling issue in the film industry, has often made headlines. From Bollywood to regional cinemas, allegations of exploitation have surfaced repeatedly. Recently, renowned Bollywood director Imtiaz Ali addressed this sensitive topic at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa, offering his perspective on the matter.
Imtiaz Ali’s Honest Take on Casting Couch
During a session at IFFI, Imtiaz Ali, known for directing hits like Jab We Met and Rockstar, shared his thoughts when asked about the casting couch. He said, “I have been a director in the Hindi film industry for 15-20 years. I’ve heard a lot about the casting couch. People talk about how women come in fear and feel they need to compromise. But let me tell you, a woman who cannot say no doesn’t necessarily have better chances in the industry.”
He further elaborated, “It’s not true that compromising will guarantee a role. In fact, I’ve observed the opposite. Those who compromise often end up compromising their career.”
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Imtiaz emphasized the importance of self-respect in building a career. He said, “There are many people willing to exploit others, but a woman who values herself and says no will be respected. If someone respects themselves, others will respect them too. To cast someone, I need to respect that person, and respect comes from integrity.”
He concluded by asserting that saying no to exploitation is not just an act of self-respect but a critical factor in long-term success in the film industry.
Stars Shine Bright at IFFI 2024
The International Film Festival of India, which began on November 20 and will conclude on November 28, has brought together some of the biggest names in the film world. Apart from Imtiaz Ali, celebrities like Bhumi Pednekar, Sunny Kaushal, Manushi Chhillar, Jaideep Ahlawat, and Shekhar Kapur graced the event, sharing their insights on cinema and storytelling.Imtiaz Ali’s candid remarks serve as a reminder that exploitation should never be tolerated, and integrity is key to earning respect and success in the film industry. As more voices speak out against the casting couch, there is hope for a safer and more respectful working environment for aspiring artists.