Actress Ester Valerie Noronha aka Ester Noronha has spoken out strongly against the casting couch menace in the Telugu film industry, calling for strict social accountability to eradicate the practice.
According to Ester, most new-age directors and producers are professional and focused purely on talent, staying away from any form of personal or sexual favors. However, she alleged that a few celebrities from an older generation continue to indulge in such practices, which she said is tarnishing the industry’s reputation.
Taking a firm stand, Ester suggested that not just those who demand sexual favors, but also those who willingly offer them in exchange for roles should be called out and banned. She stressed that only collective action can bring real change.
The actress placed the responsibility squarely in the hands of audiences, stating that public support and rejection play a crucial role in rooting out unethical practices from the industry.
Ester is currently busy promoting her upcoming film “Amaravathiki Aahwanam,” which is scheduled for release this weekend (Feb 13).
