Was asked to audition outside cafe: Mary Kom actor calls out YRF casting director
The recent controversy surrounding Yash Raj Films’ (YRF) casting director, Shanoo Sharma, has taken a new turn. After actress Isha Talwar called out Shanoo for conducting an audition at a busy restaurant, Mary Kom actor Bijou Thaangjam has now shared his own unpleasant experience with the casting director.
In an interview, Bijou revealed that his first film audition was with Shanoo for the 2015 film Byomkesh Bakshy. He recalled being asked to perform a scene right in front of a cafe, which he deemed unprofessional. “My first film audition was with her for Byomkesh Bakshy. I was asked to perform a scene right in front of a cafe. I thought it was weird, but I was new to the industry and didn’t know how to react,” Bijou said.
Bijou’s experience echoes Isha Talwar’s recent allegations, where she claimed that Shanoo conducted an audition at a restaurant, making it difficult for her to focus on the scene. Isha had stated that she was asked to audition for a role in a YRF film, but the audition space was noisy and distracting, with people walking in and out of the restaurant. She had expressed her frustration over the unprofessional approach, saying that it was unfair to expect actors to deliver their best performance in such an environment.
Bijou’s comments have sparked a debate about the importance of a professional audition process. Auditions are an essential part of the casting process, and it’s crucial that they are conducted in a way that allows actors to showcase their skills without any distractions. Professionalism is key in any industry, and the film industry is no exception.
The controversy surrounding Shanoo Sharma’s audition practices has brought to light the need for a more organized and respectful approach to casting. Actors invest a lot of time and effort into preparing for auditions, and they deserve to be treated with respect and professionalism. Conducting auditions in a noisy, public space like a cafe or restaurant is not only unprofessional but also unfair to the actors who are trying to make a living in the industry.
YRF, as one of the biggest production houses in Bollywood, has a responsibility to set an example for other production houses and casting directors. By condoning Shanoo’s behavior, YRF is sending a message that it’s acceptable to treat actors unprofessionally. This not only undermines the credibility of the production house but also creates a toxic environment for actors who are already struggling to make a name for themselves in the industry.
It’s essential that YRF takes immediate action to address this issue. They should conduct an internal investigation into Shanoo’s audition practices and take necessary steps to ensure that all future auditions are conducted in a professional and respectful manner. The industry needs more transparency and accountability, and YRF has a chance to set a positive example.
In conclusion, Bijou Thaangjam’s experience and Isha Talwar’s allegations have brought to light the need for a more professional and respectful approach to casting. YRF and Shanoo Sharma have a responsibility to ensure that auditions are conducted in a way that allows actors to showcase their skills without any distractions. It’s time for the industry to take a stand against unprofessional behavior and promote a culture of respect and professionalism.
