Swara Bhasker shares harrowing experience of director's harassment after Tanu Weds Manu

Actor Swara Bhasker revealed an incident of inappropriate behavior by a Bollywood director on the reality show Rise and Fall. The event took place following the success of her 2011 film Tanu Weds Manu.

The Incident

Swara said the director first sent her text messages with poetry about her looks after telling her that directors must love their actors. During a 56-day outdoor shoot where she was the only woman staying at a guesthouse, the director insisted she rehearse a romantic scene alone with him and the male lead. She refused and asked for the cameraperson and the other actor to be present. Later that evening, she saw the director and cinematographer drinking alcohol from a half-empty bottle.

Nighttime Harassment

The situation escalated late at night when the director started banging loudly on her hotel room door, making her fear he would break it open. When she opened the door, he was swaying, slurring his words, and repeatedly demanding a hug. Swara told him directly that he was scaring her, but felt helpless because he was the director of the film.

Context

Reality television shows often feature celebrity contestants opening up about personal challenges and past industry experiences to connect with viewers. Discussions around workplace safety and professional misconduct in the entertainment industry continue to highlight the vulnerabilities faced by actors, particularly early in their careers.