‘I Was Scared Of Losing Work’: Swara Bhasker Recalls Being Sexually Harassed By Director In 2011 On Set
Shedding light on the darker realities of her early days in the film industry, acclaimed actress Swara Bhasker has recounted a deeply traumatic workplace experience from over a decade ago. While shooting for a project in Madhya Pradesh back in 2011, the young star found herself subjected to highly inappropriate behaviour by her director. Having just delivered her breakout performance in Tanu Weds Manu, a vulnerable Bhasker lacked a dedicated team for protection. Because the misconduct involved no physical contact, she shockingly failed to recognise it as sexual harassment.
'A Textbook Case Of Harassment'
During a recent interaction with The Free Press Journal, the outspoken star revealed that her lack of awareness back then stemmed entirely from the absence of physical touch, which led her to believe it did not qualify as harassment. It was only years later, during the global #MeToo movement, that reading about other women's traumatic experiences finally gave her clarity.
"I didn't even know, I didn't identify it as sexual harassment at the workplace while it was happening because the man had made no physical contact with me," Bhasker explained. "I was like, oh my God, this is harassment. It's like a textbook case of harassment."
Shedding light on why many women, including herself, hesitate to speak up immediately against powerful figures, the actress pointed to the genuine fear of professional sabotage. The film she was working on had a demanding 56-day schedule, and the inappropriate behaviour allegedly began within the very first few days of the shoot.
Not wanting her hard-earned career to suffer, she kept quiet to survive the environment. "I don't want to leave the project. I don't want to lose work. I mean, I also have my own ambitions, right? Which is fair. Like why shouldn't I?" she stated candidly.
Finding Support On Set
Desperate for help without abandoning the film, Bhasker eventually confided in the project's executive producer, warning him about the director's actions. Proving to be a vital pillar of support, the producer protected her throughout the extensive outdoor schedule. "He actually became my friend. He protected me. At that time and today he's my manager," she shared.
Reflecting on how industry dynamics and overall awareness have evolved since 2011, Bhasker strongly urged younger female actors to establish firm boundaries early on. "Speak to people, seek help, seek support and call things out immediately because now we can actually do it," she concluded.
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