Casting couch exists in Ollywood: Odia actress defends Prakruti Mishra

Casting couch exists in the Odia cine industry and the allegations against producer Sanjay Nayak might as well be true, said actress Pupul Bhuyan.

Speaking to OTV, Bhuyan said while 99 percent of the people in Ollywood are clean, there are still one percent who would force newcomers to compromise in order to get work in the industry.

“There are a lot of talented girls who come to get work in Ollywood, but they suddenly disappear after doing one or two projects. It indicates, more than talent, there is something else that is required to get enough work in the industry. The girls who refuse to compromise in the industry, disappear into oblivion,” Bhuyan said.

Also Read | Odia Film Producer Sanjay Nayak Hits Back at Prakruti Mishra, Warns of Defamation Suit

Asked about her own experience, Bhuyan said, “Casting couch happened to me as well. When I came to Ollywood in search of work, I was approached to compromise too. However, I denied their advancements and went away. Later, I came back with the help of reality shows, met good people, and established myself with the help of my talent. I am at such a level now, nobody will approach me that way.”

She advised the newcomers to not lose hope. “There are a lot of good people in Ollywood who prioritize talent over sexual favours. So do not lose hope and work till success comes to you. And if somebody asks sexual favours from you in return of work, then expose them,” Bhuyan said.

Meanwhile, film producer Sanjay Nayak, also known as Tutu Nayak, against whom actress Prakruti Mishra leveled serious allegations of casting couch, termed all the allegations baseless.

said he would file a defamation case against Prakruti Mishra and the news channel that broadcast their statements.

“The industry knows who I am. I would like to thank those Odisha people who supported me as they know who I am. I know Prakruti as the daughter of Manmath Mishra and I have nothing to do with what she is doing," Nayak said.