Vihan Verma Shares Shocking Casting Couch Experience: 'I Was 17, I Was Left Terrified'

• TvTalks Team
• 2024-11-09T13:25:00+05:30

Vihan Verma Shares Shocking Casting Couch Experience: 'I Was 17, I Was Left Terrified' OR Vihan Verma Opens Up On Casting Couch In Showbiz, Reveals How He Was Asked For Inappropriate Advances: 'I Was Only 17*

Several actors have so far opened up about casting couch in the showbiz world. Latest on the list is, Vihan Verma. In a recent interview, the television actor recalled the time when he was asked to compromise. Vihan mentioned that he was only 17 years old at that time and was left 'terrified' after the incident.

"I encountered this unfortunate experience early in my acting career. During an audition, a suspicious individual made inappropriate advances, asking if I would compromise my values in exchange for a role. I was only 17 and terrified. I politely declined and promptly left his office," he said.

"Initially, I was traumatized and unsure how to react. Born and raised in Mumbai, I was aware of such incidents but never expected it to happen to me. To protect myself, I built confidence and self-assurance, ensuring others wouldn't dare approach me with similar proposals," the young star added.

Vihan shared that even though he was hesitant to share about the incident with his parents, he told his friends about it. However, when he told his parents, they stood by him. "I immediately shared the incident with friends but hesitated to inform my parents, fearing they'd advise me to quit acting. When I finally confided in them, they offered unwavering support and encouragement to stay confident and assertive," he said.

But the shocking incident did not discourage Vihan from pursuing his dreams. Talking about the same, the actor shared, "I recognized that sexual harassment exists everywhere, not just in the entertainment industry. I was determined to succeed without compromising my values."

"I overcame the initial emotional distress by focusing on my goals. I strengthened my resolve, deciding to succeed without succumbing to pressure. Building confidence and mental resilience helped me move forward," he added.

Vihan mentioned that such incidents are unfortunately not uncommon and therefore, anyone who faces casting couch, must stay mentally strong.

"Stay confident and mentally strong. Predators target vulnerable individuals. Remember, saying 'no' doesn't hinder success; it empowers you. Don't compromise – your talent will speak for itself. Supporting those who face similar experiences helps create a safer environment," he explained.

Vihan concluded by saying that the showbiz world is changing now and people have started to talk about or confront those who ask for sexual advances. "I hope to see opportunities awarded based solely on talent, eliminating compromises that unfairly overshadow deserving artists," he said.

Vihan Verma became a household name with the show, Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Meiin. He used to play the role of Mohit in which show, which also used to star Neil Bhatt, Aishwarya Sharma and Ayesha Singh in the lead.