Radhika Apte has recently recounted an uncomfortable experience from her early days in the South Indian film industry, revealing that she was asked to pad her chest and buttocks for a role. In an interview, Apte recalled being the only woman on set while shooting in a small town when she faced the demand. The crew insisted on adding more padding to her breasts and buttocks, leading Apte to question how much rounder they wanted to make her.

Apte, known for her outspoken nature, shared the incident with a mix of amusement and critique, highlighting what she perceived as misogyny and sexism prevalent in South Indian cinema. She mentioned that financial constraints led her to work in South Indian films in the late 2000s, during which she encountered several unsettling situations. She has also spoken about her troubling experiences while working in South Indian films in the late 2000s and revealed that she took up these projects because she desperately needed money, but the work environment was deeply disturbing. She deliberately distanced herself from Hindi films offered by some big names.

The actress revealed that she did not have a manager or agent at the time and her entire team consisted of men provided by the production, and she was explicitly told that she was not allowed to have her own team.

The actress's statements have sparked mixed reactions online. While some social media users have criticized her remarks, accusing her of defaming the industry, others argue that her experience reflects the challenges faced by women in the male-dominated film industry. Some fans are upset and commented that Radhika mocks the South industry every time she wants to get some fame before the release of her films.

Apte's earlier comments criticizing the Telugu film industry for being patriarchal and male-chauvinistic have also resurfaced, adding fuel to the ongoing debate. In the old interview, she expressed her frustration with the treatment of women on set and the limited roles they are often offered.

Despite the controversy, many have lauded Apte for speaking out against sexism and harassment in the film industry. Her willingness to share her experiences has ignited conversations about the need for greater sensitivity and respect for women in the workplace. Some have noted that if they needed someone with that body type they should cast the actress with such body type.