Telugu Influencer’s Casting Couch Allegations Go Viral; Jhansi Steps In

Casting remains one of the most debated and vexed topics in the film industry, often resurfacing with personal revelations and controversies. Tollywood too has faced its share of allegations over the years and now a new incident has reignited the controversy.

A Telugu influencer, who is based in New York and uses her Instagram handle as ‘Piku Nemali’, recently uploaded a video detailing her alleged experience trying to pursue acting opportunities in Tollywood. Due to the seriousness of his allegations, the video went viral and received widespread attention.

By his own account, he connected with an assistant director through contacts and shared his portfolio. She alleges that after an initial meeting in which she expressed her interest and commitment to acting, the person then invited her to a resort in India, claiming it would be a meeting with a leading producer. He stated that the purpose of the invitation became clear, then he chose to block the person immediately.

The influencer also expressed concern that such experiences are deterring many talented Telugu girls from entering the film industry.

After the video gained attention on social media, Anchor and actress Jhansi quickly responded by reaching out to the influencer. He urged her to formally lodge a complaint with the Telugu film industry’s Sexual Harassment Reduction Panel for further investigation. Jhansi, who is on the women’s support and grievance committee, assured that the matter would be taken seriously.

His quick response was widely appreciated online. However, it is not yet known whether those allegedly involved in the incident will be made public and whether any concrete action will follow.