More To #METOO Movement! Another Actress Asked To Sleep With Hero

By Rahael Mathew

While many assumed the end of the #metoo movement, there is still more to add. Famous names across the industry and around the world are still coming forward with many stories about sexual predators. 

Many women have shared their experiences of sexual abuse, intent and sexual misconduct, but each new story shared depicts the depravity of working in the industry. The #metoo movement began with the notion of sharing sexual abuse cases, but there are also stories of women caught in between who faced sexual advances by their male counterparts. One such story to come to the forefront was TV actress Kishwer Merchant. 

In a recent interview with ETimes TV, the actress talks about the sexual advances made towards her from one of the big names in the industry.  Kishwer Merchant has always been candid about her journey in the industry and currently enjoying pregnancy bliss. 

Talking about the incident, Kishwer said she was at a meeting accompanied by her mother, when she was told that to bag the role she would have to sleep with the hero. Recounting the incident, she also stated, “Industry badnaam hai lekin har industry mein ye cheez hoti hai (The industry is infamous for this but it happens in every industry).” 

While many women face this around the world in all vocations, it is always shocking and devastating. In Kishwer’s case, she was able to decline politely and leave, however there are alot of women who are forced to perform sexual acts. Some women feel that their choices are limited. Walking out could be detrimental to their budding careers and staying would ruin their lives. 

The sad part is, the taboo that surrounds such topics. The #metoo movement opened a safe space for many women to come forward and we hope it stays the same. Sexual abuse, comments, behaviors and advancements are not okay and it  should never silence a woman.