Salman Khan's 'Bhabi' was asked to live with producer on monthly stipend!

Bollywood’s 1994 blockbuster Hum Aapke Hain Koun... remains a cinematic gem that redefined family entertainment. Directed by Sooraj Barjatya, the film not only collected over Rs 100 crore- a massive feat at the time- but also etched its characters into the hearts of millions. Among them was Renuka Shahane, who played Salman Khan’s beloved bhabi with grace and warmth.

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But behind that ever-smiling face lay a disturbing chapter from her early career that few knew about- until now.

A Shocking Proposition

During a candid conversation with Zoom, Renuka Shahane revealed an incident that left her and her family shaken.

Renuka said, “A producer came to my home and made a proposition. He told me that he is married, but he asked me to become the brand ambassador of a saree company and told me that he will give me a stipend every month for living together with him. My mom and I were aghast.”

The actress, now married to actor Ashutosh Rana, shared how she refused the inappropriate offer. The producer, unfazed by her rejection, simply approached someone else with the same indecent proposal.

The Hidden Price of Saying No

Renuka went on to describe how rejecting powerful figures in the film industry can often come at a heavy cost.

She said, “Sometimes, when you refuse advances of someone, they come to take revenge and ask others not to take you. That is the danger. It hasn’t happened to me, but it can happen.” 

She pointed out that while she managed to navigate such situations with dignity, many others haven’t been as fortunate.

When Victims Are Punished

The actress further shed light on the grim aftermath that victims of harassment often face in the entertainment industry.

Renuka said, “It’s a club which comes together and tries to victimise the victim more.” 

According to Renuka, those who dare to complain often find themselves ostracized, replaced, or denied payment. The power structures in place tend to protect the perpetrators rather than the survivors.

The Fading Echoes of #MeToo

Renuka also voiced concern over how the #MeToo movement, which once shook the industry, seems to have lost its momentum.

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“The problem is that after the MeToo movement, the accused, after 5–6 years, are doing very good work after forgetting everything. And if you accuse someone and there is no back-up like a police case then people will confront you for not proving the allegation,” added Renuka.