Famous filmmaker Imtiaz Ali spoke openly on the controversial issue of casting couch in Bollywood. In a candid statement at IFFI Goa, the director addressed the widespread perception that compromising personal boundaries can lead to professional success in the industry.

Ali, who has directed acclaimed films like Jab We Met and Tamasha, acknowledged the prevalence of exploitation in the industry, but strongly rejected the notion that succumbing to such practices guarantees a role or career advancement .

“I have been a director in the Hindi film industry for 15-20 years. I have heard a lot about casting couch. A girl comes in, she’s scared, and she feels the need to compromise. Let me tell you, if a woman or girl cannot say ‘no’, her chances of being successful do not necessarily increase. It’s not like if a girl compromises, she will definitely get a role,” he commented.

Ali stressed the importance of self-respect and said, “If a girl can say ‘no’ and respect herself, only then will others respect her.”

He explained that many casting decisions are based on whether the person is taken seriously by the filmmaker. “People like me and many others often think about whether or not we take someone seriously; We have to respect a person to cast him,” he said.

He concluded, “So, please understand that the notion that compromise will improve your prospects in the film industry is a myth. In my experience, it is quite the opposite. People who compromise often end up compromising their careers as well. Let’s do it.”

On the professional front, Imtiaz Ali’s recent directorial venture was Amar Singh Chamkila, starring Diljit Dosanjh and Parineeti Chopra.