Latest news with #ShubhiSharma
India.com
01-05-2025
- Entertainment
- India.com
Transgender actress Shubhi Sharma reveals shocking casting couch experience: ‘He told me to take off my…'
Transgender actress Shubhi Sharma reveals shocking casting couch experience: 'He told me to take off my…' In the glamorous world of Bollywood, behind the glitz, there is a lot more that meets the eye. Often masked behind the flamboyance are silent voices, uneven opportunities, and even identity that may become a struggle to celebrate. Even though the entertainment industry seems progressive and future-forward, the truth remains far from reality. Despite the industry celebrating diversity and inclusivity, the real struggles of transgenders remains buried. One such actress, Shubhi Sharma, who stands both as a survivor and a trailblazer, reveals the reality of transgender individuals in the entertainment industry. Featured in hit television serials like Saath Nibhaana Saathiya, Dhruv Tara, and Chaand Jalne Laga, Shubhi's journey wasn't about success, but it was more about paving with prejudice, exploitation, and emotional endurance. In a candid interview, Shubhi revealed how deeply rooted stigma affects not just work opportunities but every aspect of her life. 'Who really supports transgender people?' she asked. 'In our society, families often disown people like us. We don't get life partners. Our lives are filled with pain.' Her words pierce through the superficial celebration of inclusivity, bringing focus to a harsh and often hidden truth. Talking about an incident, Shubhi shares that despite her strong industry connection, she was dropped out of the show and it went to male actors. 'I didn't know how to react. I had been told I was perfect for the part, but then it all vanished,' she said. However, one event that took her by shock was when she faced casting couch, which showcased the cruel objectification transgender actors face. An influential figure suggested she would need to 'remove her clothes' for a chance. 'I told him, I'm a transgender woman, not a girl you can exploit,' Shubhi recalled. He coldly responded, 'People like you are in demand these days.' In another incident, a filmmaker offered to help her remain 'relevant' in the competitive world, but again, the help came with inappropriate expectations. The common thread? Her identity was used against her—exoticised when convenient, erased when uncomfortable. Despite these repeated setbacks, Shubhi hasn't given up. 'I'm still struggling for good roles. When we don't have work, we depend on charity. We live on whatever comes our way,' she shared. Her truth echoes the silent pain of many transgender individuals trying to thrive in a world not yet ready to embrace them fully. Shubhi's journey is not just about her—it's about a broken system, and the strength it takes to rise above it. She continues to fight not just for roles, but for respect, space, and dignity. In a world of scripted fiction, her story is painfully real—and that's what makes it so important.
Time of India
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Shubhi Sharma on casting couch and struggles as a transgender actress in the industry; says ‘At times I survive on the charity we collect'
Television actress Shubhi Sharma , known for her work in shows like Chand Jalne Laga, Dhruv Tara, and Saath Nibhaana Saathiya, has opened up about facing casting couch experiences and the ongoing challenges she faces as a transgender woman in the entertainment industry. In a personal revelation, Shubhi shared, 'I'm working in showbiz and struggling to find meaningful roles. At times, with no work in hand, I survive on the charity we collect. I've often spoken about how makers should cast transgender actors in transgender roles instead of giving those parts to male actors.' Recalling a disturbing incident, Shubhi said, 'I remember a popular filmmaker calling me and saying he could help me survive the competition. All I had to do was let off my clothes. I told him I'm transgender, not a girl, but he said, 'These days, b*tts are more in demand.' I didn't know what to do. He's a known name with good connections. I was already in talks for two shows — one an episodic on a newly revamped channel, and another a cameo — but both roles eventually went to a male actor. One of the shows later went off-air and was caught up in controversies.' Expressing emotional exhaustion, Shubhi added, 'I don't know what's next for me. I admire actresses like Navina who can speak openly without fear. She's a woman and will always have someone to support her. But who supports us transgender people? Many of us are disowned by our families. We can't even find partners who'll stand by us. We live very merciful lives.' Shubhi has earned praise for her performances in Aaina – Roop Nahi Haqikat Bhi Dikhaye, Mann Kee Awaaz Pratigya 2, Nath, Saavi Ki Savaari, and more — continuing to fight for space, dignity, and representation in Indian television.
