Chiranjeevi Says Casting Couch Doesn't Exist, Victims at Fault
Chiranjeevi denies casting couch exists in Telugu film industry, blames victims for bitter experiences.
Veteran Telugu Cinema Icon Chiranjeevi has found himself at the center of a growing controversy following remarks he made about the casting couch at a recent film event. Speaking at the success meet of his latest film Mana Shankara Varaprasad Garu on January 25 in Hyderabad, the actor claimed that the Telugu film industry does not have a casting couch culture.
Addressing aspiring actors, Chiranjeevi stated that the film industry reflects one’s own behavior and professionalism. He asserted that individuals who conduct themselves seriously and with discipline have nothing to fear, adding that negative experiences are often the result of personal shortcomings rather than systemic issues within the industry.
The actor further emphasized that the industry offers equal opportunities to both men and women and encouraged newcomers to enter with courage, determination, and hard work. According to him, anyone who failed to thrive or encountered unpleasant experiences was responsible for their own circumstances, a remark that has drawn sharp criticism.
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Following the viral spread of his comments on social media, several users accused Chiranjeevi of victim-blaming and misogyny. Singer Chinmayi Sripada strongly countered his claims, stating that casting couch practices are widespread and that women are often denied roles if they do not comply with exploitative demands disguised as “full commitment.”
Chinmayi also highlighted the generational gap in Chiranjeevi’s perspective, noting that today’s women entering the industry are more aware, educated, and globally informed. She rejected the idea that the industry merely mirrors personal character, arguing instead that power imbalances play a significant role in exploitation.
The controversy has intensified with numerous social media users calling for greater accountability and systemic investigation into the film industry. Meanwhile, Chiranjeevi was last seen on screen in Mana Shankara Varaprasad Garu, which released on January 12, 2026, and stars Nayanthara and Venkatesh Daggubati alongside him.
Also Read: Chiranjeevi’s ‘Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu’ Opens Strong at ₹37.1 Crore
